Buducnost grabs PG Goran Jeretin - by Eurobasket NewsWhat has been reported as a rumor few days back, has finally got its confirmation. Montenegrin International Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) has signed a deal with BC Buducnost. He will be leading the team next season in their attempt to stay competitive in Adriatic League and to defend the domestic title. Jeretin is the massive reinforcement for the team that lost the likes of Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), who have left the club this summer. Goran Jeretin started his career with Ibon Niksic in 1997 and after 4 seasons with the club he first moved to Lovcen Cetinje. Following season he signed a deal with Red Star Belgrade. In 4 seasons with Red Star, Jeretin won two national cups in 2004 and 2006. During the 2006 Cup Finals he was voted 'Tournament MVP'. In 2006 Jeretin singed for Dynamo St.Petersburg, but after the team went bankrupt in October he returned and agreed deal with BC Buducnost. In January of 2007 he was signed by Maccabi Tel Aviv where he finished the season, winning the national title in process. In 2007, Jeretin signed a deal with ALBA Berlin but than got inured and was forced to miss the entire season. Last season he Moved to Ukraine and signed with BC Kyev, but had to leave the club again due to financial difficulties. Jeretin finished the season in Cyprus where he played for AEL Limassol.

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ANTIGUA

Gunners Win Zone B Finals - by Mahijah DavisThe 2009 LIME Division Two Playoffs might seem long and drawn out but the fans found out that Antigua & Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA) is making sure that all the teams in the finals get the fair dues. Harold Lovell Rockersville and Newfield Tapers battled were suppose to be over with ages ago but because a few of Tapers players had work related issues the association decided to put back the match up so it can be an even fight.However, in zone B nothing was going to stop this very heated zone from finishing. KC Ballers easily sent home zone B league champs Diamond Ice Roots to end up in the zone finals. But Cedar Grove Gunners had a little problem in their encounters with Lenworth Johnson Black Diamond. Black Diamond defeated Gunners in the second game by three points, 65-62. But Gunners managed to send Black Diamond home in game three even thought the match got a little ugly. KC Ballers were the favorites going into this showdown for the zone B championship against Gunners. In game one Gunners brought busloads of their fans to help boost their energy against the Ballers fans. Ballers looked like they were going to run over the Gunners in the early stage of the battle but when star player Oliveea Morris from Gunners turned on his hot hand, it was lights out for Ballers. Morris and the Gunners embarrassed Ballers by sweeping them two games to nothing in zone B finals. Gunners not only destroyed Ballers team in game one but also their fans since they couldnt be found in game two. Gunners blowout Ballers in the second encounter, 73-49 and sealed the title. Toriano Matthew, Morris, Daniel Mills and Alanzo Matthews banked 19, 15, 10 and 12 points respectively for Gunners while Andrew Venture was the only player for Ballers in double figure. We are in the big league now so we are going to have to get stronger and more focus for Division One. I think as long as we stay together as ah unit we can accomplish good things in the big league, Morris said. In the second encounter on the same Sunday night, Tapers defeated Rockersville in game three. Tapers won by a convincing 12-point margin, 88-76, to advance to zone A finals. The Hankook Flyers and Tapers will battle for the zone championship while Gunners wait to play either the Flyers or Tapers for the overall Division Two title, which will be the best of five games. Earl Lavishire, Nigel Joseph and Marlon Carr netted 18, 17 and 13 points respectively for Rockersville and Bryan Ralph and Jules Williams dropped 28 and 26 for Tapers.

Faisal Al Dousari buried a three-pointer to give the Saudis an almost insurmountable 73-65 lead with just over a minute remaining. And although the Emiratis managed to battle back to within three points with six seconds to go, they could not make the most of their final possession of the game when they failed to even make a worthwhile attempt for a tie before the final buzzer.

The result was the third win for the Saudis in five games, as they finished the tournament behind Bahrain and Kuwait, who will battle for the title Friday night. The UAE had to settle for fourth place with the defeat, which was their third of the competition despite a promising campaign.

Meanwhile, Qatar defeated Oman 74-57 in Thursdays other contest to take fifth place overall in the championship. Both teams were winless heading into the encounter.

In Saudis victory, the dethroned GCC champions came out of the gate firing, taking a 20-17 lead at the end of the first quarter which they maintained for a 38-35 advantage at the half.

The Emiratis stepped it up in the third, however, and at one point led by as many as nine, 52-43, before the Saudis woke up from their brief slumber. Saudi closed out the quarter strong, going on an 8-1 run to get to within two, 51-53, with just a quarter remaining.

They then took command in a hugely physical final period, when they turned up their defence and did well to manage the clock once Anwar Al Moulad gave them the lead for good, 54-53, with a triple to start the fourth.

Saudi laboured to hold on to their advantage, trading baskets with the UAE until the final minutes, when Al Moulad made a driving lay-up to make it 70-63, which paved the way for Al Dousaris late three-pointer on their next play for the commanding 73-65 lead.

Baskets from UAE guard Khaleefa Khalil and big man Omar Khalid made it interesting in the closing seconds, but it was too late as they squandered their comeback hopes with a poor play on their final possession.

Meanwhile, the gold medals will be up for grabs Friday night as hosts Bahrain will look to bank on their home-court advantage and upset tournament favourites Kuwait. The championship finale will tip off at 10.30pm at the same venue.

Both squads have won all four of their games so far. Bahrain have easily brushed aside each and every opponent they have faced, and will yet again be relying on their lightning quick one-two punch of Ahmed Abdulaziz and Maytham Jameel, as well as the sweet shooting prowess of Ali Abbas and Hesham Sarhan.

While their guards are the teams strength, their big men Mahdi Ashoor, Ahmed Najaf and Nourredine Mohammed will have to step up Friday against the formidable towers of the Kuwaitis. Yousif Al Saleh and Hussain Ali have been a solid frontcourt tandem for Kuwait, and with court general Ahmed Al Blooshi directing the offence and the always dependable Saud Shuaib and Mohammed Majid contributing, Bahrain will have their hands full.

STANDINGS

P W L +/-

Bahrain 4 4 0 +150

Kuwait 4 4 0 +101

Saudi Arabia 5 3 2 +14UAE 5 2 3 +56Qatar 5 1 4 -144Oman 5 0 5 -177

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BELGIUM

Gent Transfer News - by Peter BuyseIn a bold move by Optima Gent, the team has decided to start the season with only 2 foreign players and the rest Belgian players. This is a move not seen since the years when only 2 import players were allowed. The team today officially announced the signings of Lionel Bosco (176-G-81), Sebastien Bellin (205-C-78, college: Oakland) and Dimitri Jorssen (212-C-79, college: Utah St.) as last 3 additions to the 2009-2010 roster.Bosco comes off a successful campaign with the Belgian National team that came to within 1 game of qualifying for the EC. Jorssen comes back to Belgium after one year in the Spanish Leb Gold league playing for Valladolid and Bellin returns to Belgium after a good end of season with Groningen in Holland.

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BOSNIA

HKK Capljina Lasta sign Brkic and Blajic - by Eurobasket HKK Capljina Lasta signed 23-year old Croatian power forward Jozo Brkic (211-F/C-86). Brkic played most recently at Trogir ZP (Croatia). In 26 games of 08-09 season he averaged 7.8ppg and 4.9rpg. He was previously representing Bosnia in U18 and U20 international games. The other new face in the team is experienced Stipe Blajic (202-F/C-73). He joined from Alkar Sinj in Croatia, where he played for last 6 seasons.

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BRAZIL

Another Brazilian is coming back from Europe - by Paulo FreireThe Sao Jose Basketball/Unimed/Vinac Team close the deal to complete their roster for the remain season 2009-2010. The team made a lot of changes for this new season and now coach Rgis Marrelli will have more offensive choices. They have sign today a new point guard with international expirience, wich means that they will have two good guys for the position, but in other hands two small players.

The 27 years old Fulvio de Assis (187-G-81) played last season with CB Granada, Spain and was cut from the National Team on the last call for the American Cup in Puerto Rico.

Fulvio had played for CA Paulistano, Franca, Mogi das Cruzes, Ribeirao Preto, Brasilia and with a quick pass in a club in Venezuela.

S.Jose/Vinac stay perfect in Paulista League - by Eurobasket NewsS.Jose/Unimed/Vinac maintained their perfect record at the start of the Paulista League action. They posted the fourth straight win defeating Paulistano/Amil 80:77 on the road. Paulistano/Amil led by 5 points after the opening frame but wasted all of their lead in the reminder of the contest to suffer a narrow loss at the end. Renato Pinto (203-F-78) and Fabricio Russo (195-F) paced the charge with 21 points each. Paulao Castro (212-C-79) added 10 points for the winners. Andre Stefanelli (196-F/G-84) answered with 19 points for Paulistano/Amil. Luiz Felipe (201-F-79) had 13 points as the hosts slipped at 3-1 record. In the meantime Metodista/Sao Bernardo remained on top of the ladder. They held off Santo Andre 80:76 to improve at 4-1 record. Rafu knocked down 19 points for the winners. Pilar came up with 18 points and 18 boards in the victory. Santo Andre were not rescued by game-high 29 points from Daniel. Vivo/Franca also kept spotless as they held off XV/Cosan/Selam 97:80 at home court. Tony Stockman (186-G-81, college: Ohio St.) fired 22 points for Vivo/Franca. Helinho Garcia (186-G-75) and Rogerio Klafke (201-F-71, agency: Interperformances) added 15 points each in the winning charge.

Guilherme Giovannoni is back to Brazil - by Eurobasket NewsGuilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) returned to Brazil. He signed the contract with Universo/BRB. The 29-year-old forward left Brazil in 2002 to join Benetton Treviso. Since then he spent seven seasons in the Seria A. Last year the Brazilian international played for La Fortezza Bologna. Guilherme Giovannoni averaged 8.2 points, 3.7 boards and 1.1 assists per game in Seria A. In EuroChallenge he notched 8.7 points, 5.2 boards and 1.4 assists. Giovannoni is currently playing at the FIBA Americas Championship in San Juan.

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Bash Predicts Young Legs Close Season Tonight - by David EdoleYoung Legs coach, Brian Bash Brewley is promising that his team will dethrone the mighty East in game four of the Senior Division Championship best of five series tonight at the Multipurpose Sports Complex.

Young Legs hold a 2-1 lead in the series and had an opportunity to end it last Saturday, but the defending champ showed determination by igniting their running game and was able to avoid being swept.

The Young Legs squad is making an emotional push for the championship after losing power forward Edread Beef Stoutt who along with Glenroy Glenny Industrious were executed in a double-murder last October. The BVI Basketball Federation has named the league in Stoutts honour.

This is for Beef and Glenny it ends tonightI want all the fans to come out and be prepared to sip them champagne. For sure we will take this. We had an off night last weekend and they got into their game, but we just want everybody know that the series done tonight, Brewley said.

East which handed Young Legs their first loss of the season last Saturday with a 85-67 victory, has other plans to spoil Young Legs victory plans.

Bash always likes to run up his mouthit was the same thing last year and who won the championship? We know what we have to do to defeat them and we will do it again. The plan is simply to play team ball. The last game we had it going and that is something we didnt do in the first two games. We are not relying on one man. We are a team and that is how we intend to win, said East head coach, Verne Turnbull.

Action begins at 7:00 pm with game four of the Intermediate Division Championship series between Against Da Odds and All or Nothing.

Against Da Odds holds a 2-1 lead in the best of five series.by: BVI Platinum News Sports Reporter

PARILLON ADDS STRENGTH TO ROCKS SQUAD - by David EdoleThe Glasgow Rocks have secured the signing of ex BBL star, Steve Parillon (196-F-78, college: Henderson St.). An athletic and versatile player, Parillon will add strength to the Rocks front and back court. With the ability to guard multiple positions defensively, Parillon is also known for putting up big numbers offensively, having led a first place Sheffield Sharks in scoring before his departure from the BBL side in Nov '07.

Parillon will be familiar to Rocks fans following his brief stint with Steve Swanson's Rocks side in 2004. Rocks Player/Coach Sterling Davis is confident he has made a solid signing in Parillon:

'We are excited to bring in some experience from the league in Steve. He has played in this country on multiple occasions so he knows what to expect and what it takes night in, night out to get it done.'

Parillon is a big hustle player with a strong reputation for his excellent scoring ability. Davis believes Parillon's presence and experience will be influential on a squad with some young new recruits.

'With the young and unfamiliar faces we are bringing in this season, we can definitely use a guy like Steve to give these guys some awareness of what to expect moving forward.'

The first chance to see Parillon and his new team mates on court will be on Monday 21st September at the official pre-season launch of the Glasgow Rocks (7.00pm, Kelvin Hall). The Rocks tip-off the new season later that week on Sunday 27th September with the visit of BBL rivals Newcastle Eagles.

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BULGARIA

Team Bulgaria for EuroBasket 2009 announced - by Eurobasket NewsHead coach of the Bulgarian National Team. Pini Gershon (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) announced list of 12 players which will represent the country on EuroBasket 2009 in Poland.

This is a mix of experienced and young players. The most experienced is Lukoil Academic's star Todor Stoykov, who shined for Bulgaria on EuroBasket 2005 with 18.7 ppg. There is also Filip Videnov, who demonstrated very good performance in EuroBasket Qualifications last summer. These two players are pure scorers and they can make a difference for Team Bulgaria. In EuroBasket 2005 Videnov had 22.7 ppg. Earl Rowland is there to replace Ibrahim Jaaber. Yesterday Bulgaria outplayed Rilski Sportist and Rowland drained 20 points. Brothers Dejan Ivanov and Kaloyan Ivanov are another two players who can explode on the upcoming event. Bulgaria is placed in Preliminary Group D, together with Turkey, Lithuania and the host Poland. That is very strong pool and Bulgaria for sure will not have an easy job to reach the Qualifying Round. In the first game (Monday) Bulgaria will meet Poland. After that, Bulgarians will play against Turkey and at the end Lithuania.

With the triumph of Spanish Sport and CDV, the 16th day of the Clausura Dimayor 2009 started out in an explosive manner. In Talca, the Hispanics were higher from the outset and Sports Castro was overcome by 82-60. This result puts Talquin in mid-table, with 50% yield, 8 wins and 8 missing. Bayo local Arigbon was top scorer with 23 points, while the visitor Hank Rivers scored 19. In Valdivia, meanwhile, in a pale meeting, the CDV beat Everton de Via del Mar and remains atop the standings. The final score was 67-57 for Albirroja, who raised his game in the second half. Jonathan Heard was again the scorer valdiviano, this time with 33 points. During the visit, Julius Holt scored 20 and rookie Kris Smith enrolled with 12 entries.

KK Split sign Hrvoje Henjak - by Eurobasket KK Split added to their roster 31-year old former international center Hrvoje Henjak (214-C-78). Henjak played most recently at A.G.O Rethymno Aegean (Greece-A2). In 08-09 season he played in 18 games averaging 6.7ppg, 2.5rpg and 2FGP: 57.0%. It was not maybe his best season. But his experience would be valuable addition to KK Split. It will be actually like coming home as Henjak started his career in KK Split youth program back in 90s. The other new face at KK Split is Milan Karakas (190-G-80). He joined from Kastela Sucurac (A2).

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CYPRUS

Apollon Limassol lands four players! - by Chris MammidesAccording to the Greek press, Pizza Express Primetel Apollon agreed financial terms with four players, these players are the following: The American experienced point guard Darren McLinton The Croat power forward Ivo Josipovic (205-F-75), the top scorer of the Romanian league last season Matthews Bryant (201-G/F-82, college: Virginia Tech) and the American point guard (with Israeli passport) ex player of MENT Vassilakis, Andrew Fogel (188-G-85, college: Mercyhurst).Ivo Josipovic is an experience power forward who played in the Greek courts and had amazing performance. He also played in the Belgian, German, Russian, Bosnian and Polish leagues all of which left his remarks as he is a steady player and can offer other than points, rebounds and a lot of experience with his leadership skills in the court.Matthews Bryant was the top scorer in the Romanian league and among the top performers of the league. He is a player that can play easily in 2-3 and sometimes 4 position. He is a great rebounder and has very good organizational skills. He had 21ppg, 7rpg and 2 apg in 30 games.Andrew Fogel is a very good point guard played last season in MENT Vassilakis with very good stats and good qualities in his game. Andrew will be probably the backup point guard of the team.

AEL lands another two! - by Chris MammidesIt seems that Proteas EKA AEL Limassol is finding its way back to the glory! The limassol queen of Cyprus Basketball agreed financial terms with the Serbian experienced player, Slobodan Bozovic (207-F/C-79). The Serbian power forward is a very good matterial and a Euroleague player as he played two seazons with Olimpia Ljublianas and Partizan Belgrade in the Euroleague competition. He will add a decent amount of rebounds in the paint, a lot of fights and a decent amount of points.The second player that Coach Kuriakou Yiangoulis and Marios Thrasivoulidis team added was the one of the American Courtney Fells (198-G-86) . The American shooting guard and small forward is a North Carolina graduate with nearly 50% in the three pointers and he was a starter.

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DENMARK

Aabyhoj signed substitude for Ross - by Thomas SoltauNews from Aabyhoj.

The team from Aarhus recently signed their replacement for injured Spencer Ross (181-G-81, college: Queens (NC)), who was not able to join the team this season.

Bobby Guyton (198-F) is the new forward for Aabyhoj. The 198 tall combo forward will add depth and scoring to the roster of NT coach Allan Foss .

Guyton is coming to Denmark straight from college, where he averaged 11,4ppg and 6,7rpg. He played for a Div. II School in america.

German BBL team Ulm signs Danish Guard - by Thomas SoltauDarko Jukic is the newest member of head coach Mike Taylor's team ratiopharm Ulm. The talented shooting guard signed a one year deal, and will be licensed to play both in the BBL and with ratiopharm Ulm's 2nd team, giving Jukic a good chance to develop his tremendous potential.

Raw talent and athleticism is the trademark of Jukic's play, and the 200cm shooting guard is likely the most talented player Denmark has produced in the last years, and signing with a very good organization like the one in ratiopharm Ulm is clearly a steep in the right direction.

The next few years will determine if Jukic can live up to expectations, but he has the opportunity to be very good - also in the higher European leagues.

Eurobasket Denmark wishes Darko Jukic all the best in Germany and will follow up on his play.

Solrod are ready to compete - by Jonas SorensenHoward Frankel 's young team is ready for the season and are looking to continue their winning feeling from 2nd division.

'Last season our team learned some valuable lessons en route to winning the both Division ll east regular season and playoff championships. We learned what it takes to win and how hard we had to work to make winning happen. We also developed mental toughness and a strong work ethic. Hopefully these lessons learned will carry over to this season where we will face the more difficult challenges of competing in a very strong Division 1. Our team is a comprised of a group of young talented players with some great veteran leadership mixed in. We have good depth in almost every position so competion for playing time should remain lively in practice. Point guard Ron Larris is among the very best at his position playing at any level in DK. Morten Lisby, Mickey Fenger, Frederick Hauge, Christian Goldsmith and Christoffer Sandberg have stood out in practice. Combo guard Jakob Dehn and ageless veteran Jeffrey Markray are 2 of our biggest keys to success. Our primary goals are to establish ourselves as a solid Division 1 program, to compete to win everytime we step out on the court, and to improve individually and as a team everyday.'

NBA D-League and NBA Legends In Korea for Asian Challenge - by Gerard LimA team made up of former NBA stars and NBA D-League dubbed as NBA Generations arrived in Korea today. The first leg of the 3 friendly exhibition games kicks off tomorrow September 5 at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul, Korea against the KBL All-Stars. The event moves to Incheon against the ETIiland Backslammers on the 6th. Then the event is capped off finally in Manila, Philippines against the PBA All-Stars on the 11th of September.

One of the leaders of Team Israel for sure will be Lior Eliyahu, who joined Caja Laboral this summer. He is already a star in European basketball.Together with him, Yotam Halperin is another player who supposes to lead Israel in Poland. From this duo coach Sherf for sure expect the most on this event. Guy Pniny is one of the possible surprises and Raviv Limonad can be also placed in this group. Of course coach Sherf will expect a lot of experienced players Tal Burstein, Yaniv Green and Ido Kozikaro.Israel is placed to Preliminary Group A, together with FYROM, Croatia and Greece. In the first game (Monday) Lior Eliyahu and his teammates will meet Croatia. After that, they will play against FYROM and at the end Greece. Three teams from this pool will advance to Qualifying Round. There, Group E and Group F will have 12 teams in total, so the best 4 from each group will advance to Quarterfinals. Six best teams of EuroBasket 2009 will book a spot for 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. As a reminder, Turkey and USA automatically qualified, while it is already known that Angola, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Argentina, China, Iran, Jordan, Australia and New Zealand will also participate on this event.

Team Bulgaria for EuroBasket 2009 announced - by Eurobasket NewsHead coach of the Bulgarian National Team. Pini Gershon (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) announced list of 12 players which will represent the country on EuroBasket 2009 in Poland.

This is a mix of experienced and young players. The most experienced is Lukoil Academic's star Todor Stoykov, who shined for Bulgaria on EuroBasket 2005 with 18.7 ppg. There is also Filip Videnov, who demonstrated very good performance in EuroBasket Qualifications last summer. These two players are pure scorers and they can make a difference for Team Bulgaria. In EuroBasket 2005 Videnov had 22.7 ppg. Earl Rowland is there to replace Ibrahim Jaaber. Yesterday Bulgaria outplayed Rilski Sportist and Rowland drained 20 points. Brothers Dejan Ivanov and Kaloyan Ivanov are another two players who can explode on the upcoming event. Bulgaria is placed in Preliminary Group D, together with Turkey, Lithuania and the host Poland. That is very strong pool and Bulgaria for sure will not have an easy job to reach the Qualifying Round. In the first game (Monday) Bulgaria will meet Poland. After that, Bulgarians will play against Turkey and at the end Lithuania.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Top League level will be higher - by Rauno HurmalainenThe story about Hanno Mottola (208-F-76, college: Utah) finally ended - as expected. Mottola signed with Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) for coming 2009-2010 season and that means he will return back to top level in Finland after a break of 13 years! Mottola left YMCA Helsinki in the year 1996 and has played basketball since then in the USA (Utah Utes (1996-2000), Atlanta Hawks (2000-02), and later in Spain, Italy, Russia, Lithuania and in Greece. Last year Mottola and his family settled down in their nice house in Helsinki, but a come back to the National Team (109 times on NT roster) made it possible to play again on top level in 'Korisliiga'.ToPo has signed also with Elias Kajander (196-F-80), who spent part of last season playing on Honka (Espoo) roster averaging 6,3 ppg and 2,6 rpg. ToPo's new American players are swingman Corey Smith (196-G/F-83, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Vanderbilt) and Guard Obie Trotter (186-G-84, college: Alabama A&M). Smith played in Finland (Kouvot, Kouvola) already 2007-08 and was named the Player of the Year. Smith averaged then 20,5 ppg and 8,4 rpg. Last season Smith played in three countries: Uruguay, Latvia and Sweden. Obie Trotter has not been in Finland before, but in Europe yes. Trotter played professionally in Germany (Giessen) 2006-08 and in France (Brest, ProB) 2008-09. Trotter averaged on Brest roster 9,1 ppg, 4,1 rpg, 4,0 apg and 1,9 spg.FoKoPo (Forssa) has found a replacement for Damien Argrett, who never came at Helsinki-Vantaa airport. American C-F Durell Vinson (201-F-85, college: Wagner) will replace Argrett. Vinson played last season already in Finland averaging 14,9 ppg - 9,1 rpg on KTP (Kotka) roster.

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FRANCE

Zaragoza edge Pau-Orthez in friendly - by Eurobasket NewsZaragoza - Pau-Orthez 62:59Zaragoza claimed the first pre-season victory. They overcame the French powerhouse Pau-Orthez. The French team shocked Zaragoza with a 15:6 start to the game. They rallied to a comfortable 19:12 lead after ten minutes of action. But the Spaniards soon adjusted and exploded with 24 points in the second quarter to gain the advantage. CAI Zaragoza clinched a 36:33 lead at the interval. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. Zaragoza however did not allow their opponents to trim the distance and entered the fourth stanza ahead by 8 points. Pau-Orthez limited the Spanish team to only 9 points in the final quarter but could not overcome the deficit and had to surrender at the end. Darren Phillip (201-F-78, college: Fairfield) top-scored with 24 points for Zaragoza. David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.) added 10 points in the winning case. Teddy Gipson (193-G/F-80, agency: 540 Sports, college: Arkansas) replied with 12 points for Pau-Orthez. Slaven Rimac (195-G-74) and Antoine Mendy (198-F-83) had 9 points each in the losing effort. Matt Kiefer missed the game because of the minor injury to his left knee.

NM1: Besancon out, Longwy in - by Chris SpiesserA few days before the season start, Besancon's salarial level has been cut down. In the mean time some other financial partners gave up. This tricky situation led the executives of the former ProA team to release their NM1 place. The federation gave the free spot to Longwy. The lorrains, relegated during the last day of the 2007/2008 season expected the whole summer for such a situation... that finally hapened 3 days before the first jump ball.

The BC longwy-Rehon built a team for NM2 with a new coach, Jerme Navier, former assistant from Eric Girard. His roster that could be joined by another PG and maybe a big man is componed of 8 men yet. Kaczmarow, Scumacher and Hane where in the last year's squad. Bertrand Navarro comes from Orlans, seeking for game time, Pellerin and Cransac are NM1 well-known recruits while Kasperzec and Situtala will have a first NM1 experience.

With this new composition we still have a 17 teams NM1 but also a 13 teams NM2 group D. Though, teams likes Souffelweyersheim, Autun or Gries shouldn't be too disappointed of not facing a strong opponent like the BCLR.

David Huertas moves to France - by Eurobasket NewsDavid Huertas (196-G-87, college: Mississippi) inked the deal with ProB team Fos Ouest Provence. The 22-year-old Puerto Rican guard spent the previous season back at home. He played for Quebradillas Pirates in the BSN. The guard averaged 12.5 points, 3.8 boards and 1.3 assists per game. The same 2009 year David Huertas graduated from the University of Mississippi. He tallied 18.1 points, 4.5 boards and 2.3 assists per game in his senior year with the Rebles.

French prospect Evan Fournier joins JSF Nanterre - by Eurobasket NewsPro B team - JSF Nanterre announced signing of forward Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92). The young French prospect played last season for Centre Federal du Basket-Ball averaging 17 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.6 apg and 1.5 spg in NM1. Next season he will play at the higher stage and JSF Nanterre hopes he will be able to have important role in the team. 17-year old Evan Fournier is a member of U18 France, which won Silver medal at the U18 EuroBasket in Metz this summer. He was one of the best players in Team France collecting 12.4 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 9 games. At the end of the contest he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Best Forward'. Of course he also was selected to 'Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 1st Team -09'. After that, Fournier participated at the Adidas Nations Tournament in Dallas, TX (Team Europe). That was another confirmation of his rating. In 2008, Evan Fournier shined on another prestigious event, but this time with U16 France. They reached Semifinals on EuroBasket in Italy and Fournier once again was one of the leading players. He appeared in 8 games registering 13.9 ppg and 3 rpg. He is considered as on of the top prospect of the 1992 generation and he will have opportunity to follow the footsteps of Adrian Moerman and Edwin Jackson, who have fully taken advantage of their experience with Nanterre. He will made debut in friendly game against Brest on Saturday.

NM1: Besancon out, Longwy in - by Chris SpiesserA few days before the season start, Besancon's salarial level has been cut down. In the mean time some other financial partners gave up. This tricky situation led the executives of the former ProA team to release their NM1 place. The federation gave the free spot to Longwy. The lorrains, relegated during the last day of the 2007/2008 season expected the whole summer for such a situation... that finally hapened 3 days before the first jump ball.

The BC longwy-Rehon built a team for NM2 with a new coach, Jerme Navier, former assistant from Eric Girard. His roster that could be joined by another PG and maybe a big man is componed of 8 men yet. Kaczmarow, Scumacher and Hane where in the last year's squad. Bertrand Navarro comes from Orlans, seeking for game time, Pellerin and Cransac are NM1 well-known recruits while Kasperzec and Situtala will have a first NM1 experience.

With this new composition we still have a 17 teams NM1 but also a 13 teams NM2 group D. Though, teams likes Souffelweyersheim, Autun or Gries shouldn't be too disappointed of not facing a strong opponent like the BCLR.

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FYR MACEDONIA

Torus brings in last minute signing - by Eurobasket NewsIn the closing hours of transfer deadline, BC Torus seems to have been most active team. After securing somewhat surprising signature of Dimitar Karadzovski (189-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza), Torus announced agreeing a deal with one more player. Aleksandar Stefanovski (200-G/F-87) was brought it from Swisslion Pelister just like his old-new teammate Karadjovski. At the same time, the cub has also announced that they have canceled contract of two players. Filip Konzulov (193-F-88) and Ljubomir Stojanovski (185-G-86) were let go and they will be looking for a new club. Torus has finished with roster overhaul in an attempt to form a team which will improve on last year's 6-14 record. Aleksandar Stefanovski started his career with Vardar Osiguruvanje in 2005. Folowing season he spent some time on loan at 2nd League outfit Talent School And 1 Skopje. He also made several appearances for Vardar. In 2006 he moved to AMAK SP Ohrid where he stayed for two seasons. Last year, he moved yet again this time signing with Swisslion Pelsiter. As a member of starting five, Stefanovski helped its teram reach National Cup Finals. So far, Stefanovski represented Macedonia at U18 and U20 level. In 2007 he participated at the U20 European Championship in Slovenia. He played in 6 games and posted averages of 4.7 points and 1.8 rebounds.

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GERMANY

Yassin Idbihi Is The Last German Cut Before The European Championship In Poland - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberA coaches biggest nightmare is making that last cut and once again Dirk Bauermann had to give the bad news to one of his players and the unlucky player was Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) The 26 year old 208 cm forward/ center who recently signed with The New York Phantoms Braunschweig and had been a part of the extended German national team roster since 2008 got the word this morning that he wasnt going to go to Poland and fight for the title. Coach Dirk Bauermann surprisinly still had some words left after having to make this very difficult decision. 'Yassin gave us a lot of input and passion this summer and was always a role model. But in the end it was nuances that came to benefit other players. It is not nice for a coach to make a decision like this, but only 12 players could go', stressed German national team coach Dirk Bauermann .

Eye To Eye With Ronald Ross (Artland Dragons) - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberRonald Ross (188-G-83, college: Texas Tech) is a 26 year old 188 cm point guard from Hobbs, New Mexico. He played at Texas Tech from 2001-2005 under legendary coach Bobby Knight. In 2004-2005 in his senior year, he played 33 games and exploding averaging 17.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3Pts: 43%. He reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2005. He then turned professional and played in 2005-2006 in Italy in the Lega 2 for Univer Castelletto Ticino playing 12 games and averaging 9.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, 2.2spg, 2FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 24.0%, FT: 76.5%. In 2006-2007, he played in the CBA for the Butte Daredevils playing 48 games and averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), FGP: 49%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.2%. In 2007-2008, he came to Germany to play for ENBW Ludwigsburg playing 34 games and averaging 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9%. He also played 10 ULEB Cup games averaging 11.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50%, 3PT: 44%, FT: 66.7%. He reached the 2008 BBL cup final losing to the Artland Dragons. In 2008-2009, he started in Isarel for Maccabi Givat Shmuel playing 8 games and averaging 14.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 11.8%, FT: 66.7% before moving to Maccabi Haifa Heat playing 6 games and averaging 7.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.7apg, 2.0spg. That was a short stay as he then continued back to Germany to play for the Artland Dragons playing 12 games and becoming a central figure in their offense averaging 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Ronald spoke to Eurobasket some weeks ago before heading to Germany.

Ronald, thanks for taking some time to talk to eurobasket.com. You played only a few months with the Artland Dragons, but something must of touched your heart there because you resigned for the 2009-2010 BBL season. What made your decision easier that made you resign?

Last year was one of the more interesting years of my basketball career. I moved around to several teams, but they were all for the right reasons. Although, when I arrived to Artland I really felt comfortable. The people involved with the team from the owners and coaching staff to the workers in the coffee shops just embrace you and make you feel welcome. Long story short, the basketball team is built off pride and winning and for me there is nothing more important playing for a team that wants nothing less than a championship. So once we agreed with the business matters, it was a very easy decision to resign.

After having a great season with Ludwigsburg last season avergaing in 34 games: 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9% did you miss the BBL which might of also made the decision easier to come back? What makes the BBL so unique as a league?

My first experience with the BBL was with Ludwigsburg and after my short experience with Artland last year it's easy to say the the league is very solid and definitely getting stronger and stronger.

Was there anything that you already grew to love in the countryside of the Artland?

As far as the countryside of Artland is concerned, I like how everything is laid back and peaceful.

You started the season with Maccabi Givat Shmuel on Israel and had very good stats with 14.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 11.8%, FT: 66.7%; but then left. Why did that team not work out?

Well, I left Givat due to financial issues and then immediately went to Macabbi Haifa for two months to replace an injured player with an open option on both ends to finish the remainder of the season. Haifa was great, but negotiations with Artland were in place and I thought that would be the best decision for me. I knew in Artland I would be playing point guard and I know when I have the ball in my hands I can make a lot more things happen for my team. In Israel I played a lot more of just a shooting guard and I wasn't completely comfortable with that. I've always played point guard more than anything in my career.

You then signed with The Artland Dragons and was joined by ex NBA player Toby Bailey. You came shortly after the Dragons eight game losing streak and led the team to a 9-4 record and just missing the playoffs. What changed with the team with your arrival?

On my arrival to Artland, the team was full of winners, but they were just going through a drought. I think Toby and I brought a new energy to the team and it was accepted by the team. It was a humbling situation and the team understood that the on way to go was up.

Even though The Artland Dragons missed the playoffs on the last game day, because Paderborn couldnt beat Goettingen, how disappointed were you? I mean you had only been there a few months, but I can imagine that you felt a growing love for basketball there since the fans were very emotional in the Artland arena.

I was very disappointed when we didn't make the playoffs, but I was more proud to be part of a team and have fans that never gave up. We would have never made as far as we did without the support of the fans. Artland Dragon fans are truly one of a kind.

Was your biggest highlight beating the 2009 BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg 86-76 in their arena? How impressed were you with Jason Gardner, Rickey Paulding and co?

It was nice to beat Oldenburg at home, but I wouldn't call it a highlight. We had a good team and played the way we were capable of playing. That victory was just a small part of what our ultimate goal was and that was making the playoffs. Ricky and Jason are great players, but as a true competitor at any level, you have a job to do. There is no room for cheerleading when your up against anybody and I think they would agree.

In your short run last season, you tore up the BBL averaging in 12 games: 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Those shooting percentages are pretty good. You had good stats in Ludwigsburg, but shot only 29% from three point land. How much do you think did your game improve in one season?

I think that I played pretty good for the 12 games I was there, but at the end it felt like I had a 40 point game and lost. But I would have to credit my success last year to continuous hard work, the coach, and my teammates. Everything was in order and I was able to play with a lot of confidence. I really love our system and how hard our team worked for each other.

For me you are the best point guard in the BBL, but you have a lot of good competition in the BBL. Who do you see as the top point guards in the BBL?

I liked a couple of guards..I liked Kyle Bailey and McElroy personally. I had respect for a lot of the guards though.

What are the most important aspects that The Artland Dragons need to improve on to be really successful next season?

I think for us to be successful next year we will be for us to be healthy. I think that's the most important because we had a couple serious and phantom injuries last year. We gotta have all of our horses and we'll be good to go.

The Artland Dragons management has already gotten busy with the new season and with the resigning of you and Bailey, getting Nathan Peavy, the talented Folarin Campbell, resigning Darren Fenn, having Darius Hall and possibly getting Adam Hess back, the team looks extremely strong. Is this a team that could play for the BBL title or are the playoffs the number one goal?

I think our team will be strong and ready to go. Our management did a great job of putting the team together and not to sound arrogant, but if your not playing for the title what are you playing for?

Young Thorsten Leibenath didnt have an easy season as coach, often getting criticised for making wrong decisions. What was your impression of his work. Could his second season be his break out year as coach?

I like the fact that Coach Leibenath is young. He has a lot of energy and is very ambitious with a great love for the game of basketball. If you beat him one time, he will play you 100 more times until he figures you out. In my opinion, we've all made bad decisions but more importantly, its if you learned from them. He's not a quitter because he could have easily given up on the season last year but he didn't . He kept the same faith in the team and making the playoffs until the end.

Darius Hall is a very popular player in the BBL. What was the funniest experience that you had with with him in your short time this season?

As far as Darius Hall is concerned, in my short time. I can't pick one moment because it never stops with him but can say that he is one of the most passionate players I have ever played with. He is one of my favorite players I've ever played with throughout my career.

In Ludwigsburg, you had a very potent guard combo team with German Heiko Schaffartzik, who signed with the New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He has been developing very nicely as a player and should play a role this summer at the European championships in Poland with Germany. He is already an excellent player, but do you think there is still something within him that could make him explode as a player?

Heiko is indeed a good player. He's the type of player that plays the game without having to think about it too much. I think he will continue to improve because he's a hard worker and very intelligent. If he can get his short arms to grow and continue to study the game he will for sure explode..haha

How does your offseason workout plan look like? How many shots do you take per day?

lift about 3 times a week and run about 5 miles a week. I play 3 games a week in this summer night league back at home as well.I never shoot less than 500 shots in all my dribbling drills and shooting drills that I do. But the key to having a successful work out is staying focused the entire time and not daydreaming. You can't be daydreaming about your girlfriend or talking about what you did last night..you gotta put yourself in the game or your wasting your time.

What can you do for relaxation in Hobbs, North Mexico?

In Hobbs, New Mexico the best thing to do for relaxation is to do absolutely nothing. Its a small town of about 45000 people and everybody loves basketball for the most part. I usually just enjoy my time with my family and friends and have non-stop barbeques.

Where were you and what were you doing as you heard that Michael Jackson had died?

I had just finished working out when I got a text from a friend that Michael Jackson died. Its was a joke and I didn't take it serious. I can't lie though, when I watched the memorial I was shook up. He had a huge impact on me and really inspired me just to be successful. My favorite songs because I can't pick one. ..Dirty Diana and Remember the time.

What has been the favourite DVD that you have seen in last weeks?

Public Enemies and The Hangover are some of my favorites that I watched lately.Thanks for chat Ronald!!!!!!

Darko Jukic Moves To Ratiopharm Ulm - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberDanish basketball players in the BBL are rare, but Ratiopharm Ulm have gobbled up a young man named Darko Jukic from the country that gave the world Brigitte Nielsen. Juckic is a 19 year old 199 cm guard who passed the two week tryout phase and recieved a one year contract. He also will be able to play for the Oberliga team. Last season, he played for the Copenhagen Falcons and was named the best U 18 youth player in Denmark.

Paderborn Baskets, Oldenburg and the Skyliners win the friendlies - by Eurobasket NewsAlthough the season starts in the beginning of October, some teams started thier pre-season games. The majority of them will soon participate in the friendly tournaments. Paderborn Baskets overcame AZS Koszalin from Poland 80:57. The German side looked better in the whole game winning the first half 41:23. Kevin Langford (203-F-85, college: TCU) nailed more and more for 58:33 and later in the game Paderborn Baskets had 60:41. Nate Gerwig (206-F/C-83, college: Kent St.) paced all the winners with 16 points and Matt Terwilliger netted 15. DeAndre Haynes brought the winners 13 points, whilst Lawrence Borha scored 10. Sefton Barrett poured in 9 points, Kevin Langford added 7 and Thomas Gajda notched 4. Union Olimpija played their first friendly game over Oldenburg. The German side looked a bit better to win 71:67 as Nemanja Aleksandrov (210-C/F-87) top-scored for the dragons with 17 points. Radojevic ended up with 14 points and Ozbolt had 13. Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) nailed a buzzer beater for 76:74 victory over Ludwigsburg. His Deutsche Bank Skyliners celebrated the friendly game over the opponents as the player had 12 points and 5 assists. Seth Doliboa (203-F/C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds, while Pascal Roller had 17 points and 5 assists.

Ty Harrelson will run the point in Osnabrueck - by Moritz KorffThe GiroLive Ballers Osnabrueck (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have signed another import player: Ty Harrelson (193-G-80, college: Wayland Baptist) will join the team and run the point for the Ballers. The 2006-2007 Eurobasket.com All-2. Bundesliga South Guard of the Year spent this past season in Finland and Hungary, but played only eight leagues games totally through the year. For Joensuun Kataja from Finland Harrelson averaged 15.0 points and 2.8 rebounds (4 games), while he scored 5.0 points per contest for the Hungarian club Falco KC-Szombathely. In 2005-06 he suited up for TV Langen and spent the following two years with BBC Bayreuth.

Slovenia beat Germany once again - by Eurobasket NewsGermany - Slovenia 62:74Germany and Slovenia played the second friendly game in as many days. This time the clash took place at the Europahalle in Karlsruhe but the outcome remained the same as the visitors celebrated a comfortable victory. The teams kept it close in the first half but a rally bridging the third and fourth frames allowed Slovenia to clear off for good in this one. The hosts enjoyed a slender 8:7 lead midway through the opening frame. But Slovenia eked out a 17:16 advantage after ten minutes. The visitors maintained the lead in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 43:32. The hosts ignited a 9:3 run at the start of the third quarter to pull closer. Slovenia however kept in charge and ensured a 57:51 advantage at three-quarter time. The visitors opened the fourth period with a 15:7 rally to take a 14-point advantage midway through the final term. Slovenia eased to the win in the final minutes of the encounter. Samo Udrih (195-G-79) came up with 14 points to pace Slovenia. Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) added 12 points, while Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) produced 10 points in the win. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) responded with 13 points for Germany. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) had 9 points in the losing case.

Sechtem land Phillip Sellers - by Moritz KorffSG Sechtem (Regionalliga West) have completed the signing of Phillip Sellers (196-F-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: St.Rose (NY)). The 31-year-old was a dominating player in the 2. Bundesliga from 2004 to 2007, when he played for Moenchengladbach, Iserlohn and Dortmund. He had to undergo heart surgery in December 2007 and therefore missed almost the entire 2007-2008 season. But Sellers returned to the court and played a solid 2008-09 campaign with USC Freiburg in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B. He appeared in 20 games and averaged 12.6 points as well as 7.7 rebounds per contest.

Ashkelon bring in Omar Sneed - by Eurobasket NewsOmar Sneed (198-F-76, college: Memphis) returned to Ashkelon. The 33-year-old forward played for the team in 2004/05 season. Then he averaged 19.1 points, 7.3 boards and 3.2 assists per game. Later the player moved to Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion before heading to Russia and then Iran. Omar Sneed came back to Israel in the previous season to join Hapoel Jerusalem. His average stats came up to 15.6 points, 7.3 boards and 4.8 assists per appearance. In EuroChallenge Omar Sneed tallied 15.8 points, 5.0 boards and 2.6 assists. He was named to the All-Israeli League 2nd Team.

One of the leaders of Team Israel for sure will be Lior Eliyahu, who joined Caja Laboral this summer. He is already a star in European basketball.Together with him, Yotam Halperin is another player who supposes to lead Israel in Poland. From this duo coach Sherf for sure expect the most on this event. Guy Pniny is one of the possible surprises and Raviv Limonad can be also placed in this group. Of course coach Sherf will expect a lot of experienced players Tal Burstein, Yaniv Green and Ido Kozikaro.Israel is placed to Preliminary Group A, together with FYROM, Croatia and Greece. In the first game (Monday) Lior Eliyahu and his teammates will meet Croatia. After that, they will play against FYROM and at the end Greece. Three teams from this pool will advance to Qualifying Round. There, Group E and Group F will have 12 teams in total, so the best 4 from each group will advance to Quarterfinals. Six best teams of EuroBasket 2009 will book a spot for 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. As a reminder, Turkey and USA automatically qualified, while it is already known that Angola, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Argentina, China, Iran, Jordan, Australia and New Zealand will also participate on this event.

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JAPAN

Japan Times: Former MVP Palmer returns to Evessa - by John ScribePalmer returnsThe Japan Times

David Palmer, the bj-league's 2006-07 MVP, has returned to the Osaka Evessa after a two-year absence, the team has announced.

The 201-cm forward played in the NBA Development League in the 2007-08 season, appearing in 37 games for the Dakota Wizards and averaging 7.9 points per game. He sat out last season.

Palmer was one of the Evessa's most versatile all-around players during their first two title seasons (2005-06 and 2006-07).

With Palmer flourishing in his role as Osaka's super sixth man, the Evessa had a league-best 29-11 record in the regular season in 2006-07.

In the championship game against the Takamatsu Five Arrows, Palmer came off the bench and scored 10 first-quarter points. He finished with a season-high 33 points in Osaka's 16-point triumph, pulled down eight rebounds and was instrumental in the hustle department, too, diving for loose balls and playing intense, never-run-out-of-energy defense.

After the game, Evessa coach Kensaku Tennichi offered this assessment of Palmer: 'He's our scorer. And at the same time, he's a good player. He's the core of our core players.'

How valuable was Palmer for Osaka in his last season in Japan?

He scored 17.4 ppg and finished the season with 34 straight games of 10 or more points.

Before turning pro, Palmer, 27, attended Yuba City (Calif.) High School, American River College in Sacramento, Calif., and Southern Utah University.

www.japantimes.co.jp

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LATVIA

Latvia better Prokom Gdynia in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket NewsLatvia - Prokom Gdynia 93:87 (OT)Latvian National Team played the final test game before the EuroBasket 2009. They took on Polish champions Prokom Gdynia and celebrated a 6-point victory at the end. Uvis Helmanis (204-F-72, agency: Stanley International) knocked down 17 points to pace Latvia. The hosts grabbed the early initiative and raced to a 24:18 lead after ten minutes of action. Prokom Gdynia struggled to pick up the slack and stayed behind throughout the second frame. They trailed by as many as 13 points at halftime. But things turned upside down for the home team in the second half. Led by unstoppable Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) Prokom changed the complexion of the clash. They cut the distance to 10 points with one quarter remaining. Then the Polish team limited their opponents to only 13 points in the fourth stanza and forced overtime. Nevertheless Latvia survived the challenge and posted a hard-fought win at the end. Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) produced 15 points and 9 boards. Rolands Freimanis (208-F-88) added 13 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Qyntel Woods answered with game-high 34 points. Tyrone Brazelton (183-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) had 20 points in the loss.

Lithuania posted a confident win over Spain at the Siemens Arena in Vilnius. The teams are on the track with their final preparations for the upcoming EuroBasket 2009 tournament and Lithuania showed they are having some serious ambitions for it. Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) and Linas Kleiza (203-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Missouri) fired 19 points each to pace the hosts. The hosts fired 23 points in the opening frame to surge in front. They entered the second quarter up by 5 points. Spain matched the offensive effort of the home team in the second period and did not allow Lithuania to clear off substantially. The Baltic team led by 6 points at halftime 46:40. But the pressure kept on mounting on the visitors after the major break. Lithuania grabbed a 72:59 lead after three quarters of action. Spain accounted for only 13 points in the fourth stanza and had to surrender at the end. Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) scored 14 points for Lithuania. Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) added 10 points in the victory. Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) responded with 15 points and 6 boards for Spain. Jorge Garbajosa (205-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances) had 13 points in the losing effort.

Buducnost grabs PG Goran Jeretin - by Eurobasket NewsWhat has been reported as a rumor few days back, has finally got its confirmation. Montenegrin International Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) has signed a deal with BC Buducnost. He will be leading the team next season in their attempt to stay competitive in Adriatic League and to defend the domestic title. Jeretin is the massive reinforcement for the team that lost the likes of Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), who have left the club this summer. Goran Jeretin started his career with Ibon Niksic in 1997 and after 4 seasons with the club he first moved to Lovcen Cetinje. Following season he signed a deal with Red Star Belgrade. In 4 seasons with Red Star, Jeretin won two national cups in 2004 and 2006. During the 2006 Cup Finals he was voted 'Tournament MVP'. In 2006 Jeretin singed for Dynamo St.Petersburg, but after the team went bankrupt in October he returned and agreed deal with BC Buducnost. In January of 2007 he was signed by Maccabi Tel Aviv where he finished the season, winning the national title in process. In 2007, Jeretin signed a deal with ALBA Berlin but than got inured and was forced to miss the entire season. Last season he Moved to Ukraine and signed with BC Kyev, but had to leave the club again due to financial difficulties. Jeretin finished the season in Cyprus where he played for AEL Limassol.

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NBA

NBA D-League and NBA Legends In Korea for Asian Challenge - by Gerard LimA team made up of former NBA stars and NBA D-League dubbed as NBA Generations arrived in Korea today. The first leg of the 3 friendly exhibition games kicks off tomorrow September 5 at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul, Korea against the KBL All-Stars. The event moves to Incheon against the ETIiland Backslammers on the 6th. Then the event is capped off finally in Manila, Philippines against the PBA All-Stars on the 11th of September.

New Dakota Wizards head coach Rory White and NBA Hall of Fame Legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will serve as the coaching staff for this goodwill team.

Indiana Pacers sign A.J. Price - by Eurobasket NewsThe Indiana Pacers announced Wednesday they have signed their second round draft pick (52nd pick overall) A.J. Price (6'2''-G-86) to a multi-year contract. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed. A.J. Price graduated this year at University of Connecticut averaging 14.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 4.7 apg for 35 games (senior season). At the end of it he was named 'AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention -09'. On season 2007/08 Price had almost the same digits as it was in the last one. For 33 games he collected 14. 5ppg, 3.5 rpg and 5.8 apg. A.J. Price played for the Indiana Pacers at Orlando Pro Summer League.

The 38-year-old former San Antonio Spurs forward retired Thursday after 12 seasons and a reputation as one of the leagues most menacing defenders, hounding opponents with a tenacity that some players groused was more dirty than dogged.

He called it quits after being waived this summer by Milwaukee, where the Spurs dealt him in a veteran dump-off for swingman Richard Jefferson (notes)a decision Bowen said he understood.

You need to do things to better the business, and the Spurs definitely got better in the players they received, so Im looking forward to continuously supporting the Spurs, but from more of a distance now, he said in a news conference at his wifes San Antonio salon.

Bowen said he had been weighing retirement for the last five years.

Tim Duncan (notes), Tony Parker (notes) and Manu Ginobili (notes) get most of the glory for bringing three NBA championships to San Antonio this decade. But Bowen gladly did the dirty work, relishing his role as the pesky, lockdown defender who covered the other teams best player.

Asked about the likely reaction to his retirement from stars like the Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant (notes) and the Phoenix Suns Steve Nash (notes), Bowen chuckled, Im sure a lot of people are happy.

Bowen was named eight times to the NBAs all-defensive team. He finished runner-up three times in defensive player of the year voting. And though he never averaged more than 8.2 points a season, Bowen didnt shy from taking a clutch 3-pointer.

He started alongside the Big Three during the championship runs in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Bowen went on to start 500 straight games before kicking New Orleans Chris Paul (notes) in March 2008 and drawing a one-game suspensionjustice in the eyes of Bowens critics.

Opposing fans vilified Bowen as a master of cheap shots and sneaky shoves. Amare Stoudemire once insisted Bowen purposely kicked him in the playoffs. Dirk Nowitzki (notes) said after a physical April playoff game that it was the Spurs who had a dirty player, not Dallas.

Nowitzki didnt mention Bowen by name. He didnt have to.

Bowen acknowledged Thursday only one play in which he purposely kicked another player: Ray Allen (notes) in a March 2006 game against the Seattle SuperSonics, a scuffle that earned him a $10,000 fine.

That play, I remember and I regret because of me intentionally doing that, Bowen said.

But he said that his reputation as a sometimes dirty player is unfair.

People are entitled to their own opinions. Ive been fighting that for quite some time, said Bowen, who added he drew a lot of calls because of bad timing. It just so happened that I was there after everyone stuck their hands in the cookie jar and then the lights came on and I had a cookie.

Bowen was not the most obvious starter for a championship team early in his career. Drafted by Miami from Cal State Fullerton, he spent several seasons bouncing between clubs and earning little playing time.

But after his 2001 arrival in San Antonio, he found his place, eventually earning defensive player accolades and a regular starting job.

He said he hopes that will be his legacy.

Its not how you start but how you finish, Bowen said. I hope my legacy would be as someone that never was satisfied with just being where they were.

Associated Press Writer Paul J. Weber contributed to this report.

Courtesy of www.yahoo.com

Timberwolves coach Kurt Rambis adds a trio with aspirations and experience as his assistants - by Eurobasket NewsThe Timberwolves haven't made the NBA playoffs in five years and they won only 24 games last season, yet new head coach Kurt Rambis was overwhelmed with phone calls and applications from people who wanted to be on his staff.

One of the calls came from former Detroit Pistons 'Bad Boy' Bill Laimbeer, who interviewed for the Wolves head coaching job before Rambis was hired in July. Laimbeer still wanted to be a part of the organization as Rambis' assistant.

'People can clearly see the direction we're heading as a franchise,' Wolves president of basketball operations David Kahn said. 'The hope is that, three or four years down the road, this will be a special place to be.'

Kahn and Rambis welcomed Laimbeer, along with former Boston Celtics assistant general manager Dave Wohl and former Sacramento Kings head coach Reggie Theus, as part of the direction the Wolves are taking to reshape the franchise.

All three assistants have head coaching experience and come from, as Rambis put it, 'winning environments.' Each assistant also told Rambis during the interview process that they want to be head coaches again, a point that didn't make Rambis feel uncomfortable.

'I like to be around guys who have aspirations,' Rambis said. 'I'm not intimidated by that at all. I want them to be head coaches again someday, just not here. They can get their own jobs.'

Wohl was head coach of the New Jersey Nets from 1985-88. Theus coached Sacramento in 2007-08 and for 24 gameslast season. Laimbeer coached the WNBA's Detroit Shock seven seasons, leading them to three league championships and four Eastern Conference titles.

J.B. Bickerstaff, an assistant last season with former Wolves coach Kevin McHale, will be retained as director of player development.

Wohl has the most extensive background among the three. His coaching career started as an assistant with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1982 under Pat Riley, an association that led to a lasting bond with Rambis. Wohl was later an assistant with the Miami Heat, Sacramento, Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Celtics. The well-traveled Wohl was the first to accept Rambis' offer.

'The exciting part for me is joining a program that wants to build,' Wohl said.

Though Rambis did not define specific roles for the three, Wohl likely will be his top assistant.

Theus, a shooting guard for 13 seasons in the NBA, is expected to have considerable duties with the Wolves' backcourt players. He is one of only seven NBA players to finish his career with at least 19,000 points and 6,000 assists.

'Credibility is important,' said Theus, a head coach at New Mexico State for two years before taking the Sacramento job. 'It gives you an upper hand when you first walk in because players have seen you play and coach. The main focus here will be development.'

An obvious role for Laimbeer will be with the Wolves' big men. The 6-10 Laimbeer, known for his brutish play near the basket, has two NBA championships (1989, 1990) from his days with the Pistons. Laimbeer brought intensity and motivation to his playing career. As he prepares for his first NBA coaching job, patience could be his biggest challenge.

'That's something I don't have right now, but I'll learn it,' Laimbeer said. 'This is a new chapter in my life, a new path.'Courtesy of www.twincities.com

Rockets sign Pops Mensah-Bonsu - by Eurobasket NewsHouston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced today that the team has signed forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (6'9''-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington). Per team policy, financial terms were not released. Well post contract info tomorrow.

Mensah-Bonsu (6-9, 235, George Washington) has averaged 4.1 points and 3.9 rebounds in 34 career games with the Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors. In 2008-09, Mensah-Bonsu averaged 5.0 points, 5.1 rebounds and 12.9 minutes in 22 total games with the Spurs and Raptors. Signed to a 10-day contract by San Antonio on Feb. 25, Mensah-Bonsu averaged 5.0 points and 3.3 rebounds in 6.7 minutes over three contests with the Spurs. He was waived by San Antonio on Mar. 4 and was signed by Toronto for the remainder of the season on Mar. 6.

In 19 outings with the Raptors, Mensah-Bonsu averaged 5.1 points and 5.4 rebounds in 13.8 minutes per game. He set career highs for points (21), free throws made (11) and free throw attempts (13) with Toronto vs. Indiana (3/15/09). Mensah-Bonsu also averaged 26.6 points, 13.0 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in eight games (eight starts) with the NBA D-League Austin Toros. He actually began the season with DKV Joventut in the Spanish League, averaging 18.5 points in two contests (one start).

He began his NBA career with Dallas in 2006-07, averaging 2.4 points, 1.8 rebounds and 5.9 minutes in 12 games with the Mavericks. Mensah-Bonsu also averaged 15.8 points, 10.4 rebounds and 30.7 minutes per game in 26 contests (21 starts) with the D-League Fort Worth Flyers in 2006-07. His play with the Flyers earned him selection to the Eastern Division All-Star Team, where he was named MVP of the 2007 D-League All-Star Game after posting 30 points (11-13 FG) and seven rebounds. A native of London, England, Mensah-Bonsu has also played overseas with Benetton Treviso and CB Granada.

Mensah-Bonsu finished his four-year collegiate career with averages of 11.7 points and 6.0 rebounds in 112 games at George Washington University. He averaged 12.6 points and 6.7 rebounds as a senior, pacing the Colonials in field goal percentage (.564) and blocks (38). Mensah-Bonsu was named to the NABC All-District 4 First Team and to Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team in his final campaign at George Washington.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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NCAA1

Nevada F Mailk Cooke transfers to South Carolina - by Eurobasket NewsFormer Nevada starter Malik Cooke (6'6''-F-89) has joined the South Carolina men's basketball team as a walk-on transfer.

Coach Darrin Horn said the 6-foot-5 Cooke must sit out the 2009-10 season under NCAA transfer rules. Cooke, from Charlotte, N.C., said he transferred to get closer to home and thought South Carolina was the best place for him to grow as a player.

Cooke will have two seasons of eligibility remaining after next year. The school said Cooke will pay his own way this season and will be able to practice with the team.

Cooke started all 34 games last season for Nevada. He he pretty important role in his team averaging 9.6 points and 6.2 rebounds a gmae.

Courtesy of www.lasvegassun.com

Fox gives Georgia Bulldogs new attitude in first year in Athens - by Eurobasket NewsIn early April, two months after Georgia coach Dennis Felton had been fired and three weeks after a miserable season had reached a merciful end, the Bulldogs sat slumped at their lockers, waiting to hear from the man who had been hired to lead them. That man, Mark Fox, strolled into the room and posed a simple question: Why did you come to UGA?

One by one, the players answered. Some liked being close to home. Others said they wanted their families to see them play. And on a roster dotted with players who had few, if any, other offers from high-profile schools, some were likely allured by the grand stage of the SEC East. But Fox arrived in Athens driven by a different motivation.

'I want to win!' he shouted, nearly compelling senior Albert Jackson to jump right out of his seat. 'I want to win!'

For the past few seasons in Athens, wins have been scarce. Georgia went 26-59 in the SEC regular season during Felton's 5 1/2-year run. They struggled similarly under interim head coach Pete Herrmann, going 3-9. The last time the Bulldogs were consistently winning was in 2003 -- ranked No. 21 in March of that year, Georgia suspended itself from postseason play and fired coach Jim Harrick after revelations of unethical conduct and academic fraud perpetrated by Harrick's son, assistant coach Jim Harrick Jr. Eventually, after a 10-month investigation, the NCAA placed Georgia on four years' probation.

'There was a dark cloud hanging over the program at that time,' says Damon Evans, who was promoted to athletic director shortly after Harrick's departure. 'We didn't want to take chances. We wanted integrity.'

Felton instilled integrity but won precious few games. Enter Fox, a bespectacled, loafer-wearing Midwesterner. His University of Nevada teams had gone 123-43 in five seasons and reached three NCAA tournaments, and now he was charged with awakening what he saw as a sleeping giant, the flagship university in a state with one of the country's most fertile recruiting beds.

Since 2004, the state has had eight high school players ranked among the top 10 by Rivals.com, more than any other state. Of those eight, not a single one has gone on to play for the Bulldogs. (Louis Williams, ranked No. 7 in the class of 2005, committed to UGA but chose to enter the NBA draft instead). For Georgia to succeed, Fox knows he must tap into that talent.

'The key to keeping kids in-state is that the program has to become relevant for them,' says Fox. 'They have to think, 'If I go to UGA, my dreams can come true. The tournament, championships, the NBA, everything.''

Fox points out that he had success recruiting all over the country while at Nevada, where he had to venture far from Reno to bring in top talent, even going into SEC territory for South Carolina native Ramon Sessions, now a hot commodity on the NBA's free agent market. He also brought to Georgia former Alabama assistant Philip Pearson, who had helped sign three-star guard Senario Hillman and four-star prospect Jermareo Davidson out of Georgia's backyard to the Crimson Tide.

But Fox's first recruiting challenge at Georgia was convincing the top talent on the roster to remain in Athens. Forward Trey Thompkins, the second-leading scorer on the United States team that won gold at this summer's U19 World Championship, said he considered transferring after Felton was fired. But as he got to know Fox, Thompkins changed his mind.

'He had just set up his office and I saw his ring from the WAC championship,' says Thompkins, who grew up 50 miles away from Athens in Lithonia. 'I thought, I want to get one of those and have it on my mantle.'

It will be a long way for Georgia to win any rings, but Fox's initial message has gotten through. Thompkins may have come to Georgia to be close to home, but now he has a reason to stay: he wants to win.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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NIGERIA

DSTV Basketball League: Islanders humble Union Bank 79-73 - by Olusegun IkuesanIslanders basketball club of Lagos continue its unbeaten run in the Atlantic conference of the DSTV Basketball League with a 79-73 points victory over Union Bank basketball club also of Lagos.

The win by the Coaches Ogoh Odaudu and Shina Wahab tutored Islanders side thus completes a double over the bankers having defeated them by 115-93 points in their first meeting last month.

Union Bank basketball club came into the game with vengeance in mind winning the first quarter narrowly by 15-13 points while the charged Islanders players came back strongly in the second quarter with a 17-16 points win to move into the break with one point deficit of 31-30 points.

Upon resumption of play in the third quarter, the Shola Alayande captain Islanders raided the Union Bank side making good use of court run and vision to dominate their opponent winning the third and fourth quarters 26-20 and 23-22 points to maintain it hundred percent record with a 79-73 points victory.

Islanders combo guard, Anyebe Alexandra led his side with 17 points, forward Kingsley Aguara added 16 points just as the duo of Cameroon import; William Ndoumbe and Azuoma Dike contributed 14 points each.

Union Bank small forward Ugbede Oguches 19 points and Seyi Ayodele 14 points were not enough to save their side from defeat.Michael Ohiero (191-G-88, college: Customs)

DSTV Basketball League: Comets Obum scored career high 24 points to stop Police Bombers - by Olusegun IkuesanEbun Comets basketball club of Lagos captain, Obum Onyia scored career game high of 24 points out of the 67 points the Coach Ayo Bakare side recorded against Police Bombers basketball club.

Obum and his teammates won the first, second and fourth quarters (13-12, 22-17 and 18-15 points) and tied the third quarter 14 points apiece to win by 67-58 points.

Ebun Comets forward, Seun Akinwale and guard Yomi Joshua 11 and 10 points while Bombers centre, Adeyemi Makanjuola was the only player to record a double figure on his side with 11 points.

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PBL

Manchester Millrats Make Plans for Third Season - by Richard The Manchester Millrats are busy making plans to return for their third season, their second in the Premier Basketball League.

The Millrats return as the defending Atlantic Division Champions (16-4) but would like to add a PBL championship this season to their list of accomplishments in their young history.

'No question about it, we've been very close to the prize in each of our first two seasons,' stated Millrats General Manager Ian McCarthy . 'Hopefully it shows our commitment to putting a winning team on the court, and one that the City can be proud of.'

In spite of not yet winning a league title, the Millrats organization has compiled an impressive list of accomplishments in just two seasons. In 2007-08 the franchise reached the league semis, losing in overtime to San Diego. Waiting in the championship for the winner was the Vermont Frost Heaves, a team that Manchester had defeated in 5 of 7 prior matchups that year (including preseason). Vermont went on to win the title over San Diego. Other accomplishments from that season include a League MVP (Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Massachusetts)), the Executive of the Year (Ian McCarthy ), three All Stars (Anderson, PJ Young, Cedric McGinnis), an All Star Game MVP (Anderson), and three All-League honorees (Anderson, Al Stewart, Ismael Caro).

In 2008-09 the Millrats began the preseason by capturing the Green Mountain Tip Off Tournament in Barre, VT over the Frost Heaves, 94-90. After then dropping their first two regular season games on the road, Manchester rolled 16-2 the remainder of the way to win the division and earn a bye in the playoffs. In a game-two playoff battle, the Millrats came from 18 down to defeat the Rochester Razorsharks on their home court, a place where they had been 57-1. Rochester, led by Durham native Keith Friel, went on to win the tightly contested best of three series.

Overall the season was a great success with the Millrats Head Coach Rob Spon being named the PBL Coach of the Month in February, Al Stewart earning PBL Co-Defensive Player of the Year, and Desmond Ferguson and Marlowe Currie being elected to the PBL All-Playoff team.

'We've done well on the court, but our best work has been off the court,' explained Millrats co-owner David Cooper, 'we try our best to be involved in many community and charitable events, and we will continue to make our players available to visits kids in schools, youth groups, community centers, and teams.

Cooper, a graduate of Central HS, also recently founded David Cooper Basketball, an outreach program that helps many of the City's inner city youth learn the game of basketball and encourages academic success along with athletics. Cooper runs his programs out of the Bishop O'Neill Community Center at 30 Elm Street.

The Millrats staff are now busy making preparations for the upcoming season, which starts in January. Games will be played at the Fieldhouse on the campus of Southern New Hampshire University. Tickets will be onsale in the coming weeks along with a schedule.

Several former players have used their time as a Millrat to further their profesional career and have moved on to more lucrative jobs overseas. Former SNHU star, Sam Carey, has signed with Telemotive Muenchen in Germany. Anthony Anderson has signed with ISS Sportino in Poland's top division. And Marc Mazur has joined a team in Chile.

The process of filling the new roster begins on September 27th in Rockville, MD. The Millrats staff plan to be attending the PBL's national tryout combine there to scout for talent. Then on Oct 24th and 25th, the Millrats will be conducting their own - the '2nd Annual NH Exposure Combine' will be held at the SportsZone in Derry, NH and is open to the public. The PBL is also holding a draft in Chicago in Octobercourtesy of Mancehster Millrats

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POLAND

Latvia better Prokom Gdynia in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket NewsLatvia - Prokom Gdynia 93:87 (OT)Latvian National Team played the final test game before the EuroBasket 2009. They took on Polish champions Prokom Gdynia and celebrated a 6-point victory at the end. Uvis Helmanis (204-F-72, agency: Stanley International) knocked down 17 points to pace Latvia. The hosts grabbed the early initiative and raced to a 24:18 lead after ten minutes of action. Prokom Gdynia struggled to pick up the slack and stayed behind throughout the second frame. They trailed by as many as 13 points at halftime. But things turned upside down for the home team in the second half. Led by unstoppable Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) Prokom changed the complexion of the clash. They cut the distance to 10 points with one quarter remaining. Then the Polish team limited their opponents to only 13 points in the fourth stanza and forced overtime. Nevertheless Latvia survived the challenge and posted a hard-fought win at the end. Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) produced 15 points and 9 boards. Rolands Freimanis (208-F-88) added 13 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Qyntel Woods answered with game-high 34 points. Tyrone Brazelton (183-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) had 20 points in the loss.

Argentina keeps rolling - by Raul ColonSurging Argentina won its sixth straight game in the 2009 FIBA Americas Championships defeating Uruguay 73-66 to end the Quarterfinal round undefeated. Uruguay, which was eliminated yesterday, goes home with a 2-5 mark, that includes four straight losses. With a 6-1 record, the Gauchos will sit and wait for the loser of the Brazil-Puerto Rico game to see which team they will face in today's semifinal round.Argentina close out the game early with an 22-2 run in the first quarter that effectively broke the back of the Uruguayans. We did what we set out to do. There were many doubters after the (Tuto) Marchand Cup, but we silence those people yesterday (a win over Puerto Rico), said Argentinian forward Luis Scola

Scola, who plays with the Houston Rockets in the NBA, played only in the second half but still was able to lead the Gauchos in scoring and rebounds with 19 and 8. Leo Gutierrez added 12 and 5 boards. Esteban Batista led all scorers with 20 points. The 6-foot-10 center added 10 rebounds. Martin Osimani chipped in 10. Star point guard Leandro Garcia sited the game out because of a hand injury.

Trailing 59-43, Batista sparked a 12 to o Uruguayan run to close the gap to four, 59-55. But an Scola lay up with 6:40 remaining in the game ended the rally.

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RUSSIA

Kaun to miss Eurobasket 2009 - by Stanislav TyutyunnikAnother loss to Russian NT. Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) is out of Eurobasket 2009 cause of spinal hernia. The situation over captain Viktor Khryapa is bad too. Professor Andrei Korolev will make another examination of his injured left knee tomorrow. 'It'll be a miracle if the result of examination will enable Khryapa to participate at Eurobasket', - the head coach of NT David Blatt said. He also mentioned: 'It's foolish to deny that the current team of Russia is weaker than in Madrid or Beijing. The roster changed to 60 percent, and you're talking about leaders, identifying the person teams. And then there was injury Viktor Khryapa. Nevertheless, we are not abandoning the old principles and objectives. We are going to fight for getting to the World Cup 2010. Although in the circumstances to overcome even in Poland the first group stage will be difficult. More interesting to check whether our young people are ready today to rise to another, higher level'.

Interview with Keith Langford - by Stanislav TyutyunnikAmerican guard Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) signed a contract with BC Khimky Moscow Region. After impressive season at Virtus he decided to move East to be a part of Euroleague team. He was very kind to answer some of the questions to Stanislav Tyutyunnik from Eurobasket.com in this interview.

When and why did you start playing ball, who inspired you?-I started playing when I was about 11. I was a lot more into football but all of my friends were going to try out for the Jr. high basketball team and I didnt want to be the only one left out. Both of my parents were college basketball players so the curiosity came from them as well.

What would you say was the best moments you have had in your basketball career so far?-Being named to the all final four team in 2003 alongside Dwayne Wade Carmelo Anthony, Kirk Hinrich, and Nick Collison who are all top NBA players now. Also being called up to the San Antonio Spurs and scoring my first regular season basket and winning the MVP of the 2009 Eurochallenge

What it's like to play basketball overseas? Do you want to come back and play in USA again after your current contract will expire?-I enjoy the challenge of it because not everybody can do it. You see NBA players come overseas and get released from teams all the time. Its a place where guys who play the game the right way can really be rewarded. Only if I make more than what Im currently making now. But really at this point in my career its about actually being able to play rather than sitting on the bench and cheering for the team.

What's the main reason of moving to Russia?-I was actually ready to return to Virtus, but Sabitini allowed my contract to be bought out. I guess it worked out better for both sides.

How would you describe your role on the team?-Before Garbojosa, Delfino, and Palacio left the team I was prepared to come off the bench like I did at Virtus. I imagine now that my role will increase more but ultimately it will be decided by our coach.

Who are the opposition players you will be keeping a close eye on in the Superleague this season?-The only players I pay attention to are my teammates.

Are there any players that you try to model your game after?-I've tried in the past but its difficult because Im left handed. Theres not a lot of left handed players to really study and watch. Although I was a big Jalen Rose fan.

What are your biggest strengths as a guard?-I feel like I can do a wide variety of things on the court. Whether its drive to the basket, block shots, take a charge. Just overall versatility.

What about your weak sides?-I really have to focus on staying aggressive for the entire 40 minutes of the game

What aspect of the game do you enjoy most?-I love the competition. I love being tougher than somebody else. A lot of people like to play pretty basketball but for me the best time is when its ugly.

What does Keith Langford do outside of basketball, and what are your aims for the future?-My girlfriend takes up most of my time, but I try to sneak in a few games of playstation. As for my future, I want to be one of the best know American international players out there.

Where we can find you on Web - do you like social networks, maybe twitter?-I was on twitter until the bitter split in Bologna, but now I think Ill give it another shot in Moscow.

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SAINT KITTS

Ghetto Roots Scorches Fig Tree To Advance - by Eurobasket The S.L. Horsfords Ghetto Roots blazed into the playoffs with an 82-76 defeat of the LIME Fig Tree Dirt Revelers on Tuesday at Basketball City.Indeed, the Horsfords Ghetto Roots were red hot, sinking threes after threes in the opening minutes of play.However, the Horsfords Ghetto Roots seemingly became complacent and allowed Fig Tree to get back into the game in the second quarter of play.The players of the Horsfords Ghetto Roots team were apparently brimming with confidence, and while boasting their prowess, Fig Tree was able to take control of the game.Horsfords Ghetto Roots, however, weathered the storm and came roaring back in the second half, led by nhational guard and arguably the best player in the SKABA Levi Fyfeild 'By-By' (193-G/F-81) along with equally talented Rymal Browne 'Bally' (186-G-84).Fyfield had a total of 27 points in the game, two of which came from a sensational dunk that energised the Horsfords Ghetto Roots team.Browne was solid in controlling the ball, and had a total of 24 points in the game.Also, Horsfords Ghetto Roots got a tremendous game from their power forward Troy 'Jasbo' Wattley, who was an unstoppable force under the rims.Fig Tree had no answer to solve the type of defensive problems that Wattley was causing in the key.Most basketball pundits in the Federation will argue that the Horsfords Ghetto Roots is one most the talented team in the league.Other than the Rams Hitters, Horsfords Ghetto Roots has no equal in the Premier Division.'I think Horsfords Ghetto Roots and Hitters are in a league by themselves,' WallisWilkin, manager of the Horsfords Ghetto Roots team, said.Wilkin said this is indeed the year for Horsfords Ghetto Roots to walk away with the championship title, particularly since this year the Rams Hitters are not as dominant as they were last year.'On paper Horsfords Ghetto Roots has more talented players than Hitters,' Wilkin said. 'When you match up these players, our players are betterHorsfords Ghetto Roots ended the season just behind Hitters whom they defeated in a thrilling victory during the leagues 2nd round of matches. Hitters boasted some 3 overseas based players but were still humbled by the exceptional play of local based Levi 'By-By' Fyfeild and Rymal 'Bally' Browne.

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SEBL

Message From European Agent Concerning 2009 Job Market. - by Bobby RouseThe current situation for the job market in Europe is as follows. The majority of teams have money problems and want to invest as little as possible this season. There are a lot of players who are in Europe already that are trying out with teams, because this way the teams save the money for the flight ticket and pay a train ticket instead. A lot of teams are planning to start the season off with maybe one foreigner and the rest local players up until December/January (first half of the season) and then bring in another foreigner for the second half of the season. Please keep in mind that we are offering a Pro Exposure Camp in December of this year, to gather all players who havent yet signed with a team until then, and for coaches and GMs looking to bring in another Pro for the second half of the season! The tournament will be held in Bonn Germany. After a very successful camp this summer we want to repeat this in December. You can find full information about the tournament on our webpage! We will still be working on a daily basis to find players jobs, we just wanted to give you an update and a option to increase your chances of getting signed for this season!

Message From European Agent Concerning 2009 Job Market. - by Bobby RouseThe current situation for the job market in Europe is as follows. The majority of teams have money problems and want to invest as little as possible this season. There are a lot of players who are in Europe already that are trying out with teams, because this way the teams save the money for the flight ticket and pay a train ticket instead. A lot of teams are planning to start the season off with maybe one foreigner and the rest local players up until December/January (first half of the season) and then bring in another foreigner for the second half of the season. Please keep in mind that we are offering a Pro Exposure Camp in December of this year, to gather all players who havent yet signed with a team until then, and for coaches and GMs looking to bring in another Pro for the second half of the season! The tournament will be held in Bonn Germany. After a very successful camp this summer we want to repeat this in December. You can find full information about the tournament on our webpage! We will still be working on a daily basis to find players jobs, we just wanted to give you an update and a option to increase your chances of getting signed for this season!

Inter Bratislava hires Oliver Vidin as Head Coach - by Dragan JankovskiInter Bratislava finally resolved one of the most important problems for the upcoming season. The team agreed terms with Serbian Oliver Vidin to take it over as Head Coach for season 2009/10.

32-year old Vidin worked last season as HC of Dolny Kubin, where in very short time he managed to register good result.

Oliver Vidin worked in many Serbian teams in the past, mostly as assistant coach. He has experience from National Team selections, as he was the coach assistants of U18 National Team two years ago.

Inter Bratislava had below average results last season and they picked Oliver Vidin as right man for the job. As it was last season, the team will play in Slovakian elite competition.

Swisslions celebrates in friendly game, Marko Brkic 29 pts - by Dragan JankovskiCouple of friendly games were played over the last two days. On of the most exciting was Swisslions - Novi Sad 111-105 (overtime).

Swisslions played a highscoring game against Novi Sad and managed to win it. Marko Brkic (205-F/C-82, agency: Beo Basket) was a key player for the team from Vrsac scoring 29 points. Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) was behind him with 21. In Novi Sad, Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) delivered 23 points. As a reminder, Swisslions prepare for the first Adriatic league season in the club's history. They have a new head coach Miroslav Nikolic (agency: Beo Basket ), who replaced Dejan Mijatovic this summer. Returnee Marko Brkic, who rejoined the team few months ago from Polish Anwil, already send a signal that he will the leading player next season. On the other side, Novi Sad prepares for Serbian A league.

Meanwhile, ex player of Crvena Zvezda, Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) returned to Buducnost Podgorica. That is the huge reinforcement for the Montenegrin team.

Market news - by Dragan JankovskiSwisslions Takovo still did not decide where they will play home games of the upcoming Adriatic league season. The team's Management wanted to go to Gornji Milanovac, but it seems that the conditions there don't satisfy Adriatic league rules. The main reason is that the gym does not have capacity of 3.000 seats, what is the league minimum. So the team will have few more days for the final decision. At this moment it seems they will stay in Vrsac in hall 'Millennium'. The deadline in September 18 for changing it.

Meanwhile, Dusan Virijevic (206-C-86, agency: 011 Sports) signed contract with Slovenian team Sencur CPK. Virijevic is coming to Slovenia from Austria. There he played for UBSC Graz averaging 11.2 points per game and 5.5 rebounds per game. He already played in Slovenia, but for Luka Koper. At that time Virijevic had 6 ppg in 33 games. In the past he played two years for German Regionalliga team ASC Theresianum Mainz. He also was a member of FMP junior team and Smederevo. Sencur played last season in Slovenian B league.

OKK Beograd and Mega Vizura hosted Khimik - by Eurobasket NewsKhimik continued their Serbian trip with two more games over the last few days. On September 2nd OKK Beograd beat the Ukrainian side 77:72. The coach tried to give more time to the young players and allowed the top players to have more rest time. Vadim Koval (205-C-86) top-scored for Khimik with 12 points and Oleksander Sizov (200-F-88) added 11. Popov ended up with 9 points, while Oleksandr Kolchenko (198-F/G-88), Kalnichenko and Riabchuk netted 9 each. Last night Khimik overcame Vizura 76:73. It was another tough but great match-up from both teams and was excited until the last seconds. Oleksandr Kolchenko stepped up with 19 points and 5 rebounds to lead the Ukrainian side. Andrii Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) nailed 15, whilst LaVelle had 12 points and 11 boards. Brinza netted 8 and three players posted 4 points.

Slovenia beat Germany once again - by Eurobasket NewsGermany - Slovenia 62:74Germany and Slovenia played the second friendly game in as many days. This time the clash took place at the Europahalle in Karlsruhe but the outcome remained the same as the visitors celebrated a comfortable victory. The teams kept it close in the first half but a rally bridging the third and fourth frames allowed Slovenia to clear off for good in this one. The hosts enjoyed a slender 8:7 lead midway through the opening frame. But Slovenia eked out a 17:16 advantage after ten minutes. The visitors maintained the lead in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 43:32. The hosts ignited a 9:3 run at the start of the third quarter to pull closer. Slovenia however kept in charge and ensured a 57:51 advantage at three-quarter time. The visitors opened the fourth period with a 15:7 rally to take a 14-point advantage midway through the final term. Slovenia eased to the win in the final minutes of the encounter. Samo Udrih (195-G-79) came up with 14 points to pace Slovenia. Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) added 12 points, while Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) produced 10 points in the win. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) responded with 13 points for Germany. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) had 9 points in the losing case.

Slovenian teams play friendlies - by Eurobasket NewsSlovenian teams prepare more and more for the upcoming season and play friendlies with each other and abroad teams. Zlatorog lost to Lokomotiv 71:93 however looked good enough against the tough Russian squad. Lokomotiv took 21-19 after the opening quarter and added 25-10 in the second frame. In the third quarter the teams scored 23 points each that remained the Russian powerhouse in front. In the last period Lokomotiv produced another 24-19 for the total success. Esmir Rizvic (213-C-82, college: Texas Tech) top-scored for the hosts with 19 points and Bubnic nailed 17. Cmer finished the game with 10 points, while Goljovic scored 6. Union Olimpija played their first friendly game over Oldenburg. The German side looked a bit better to win 71:67 as Nemanja Aleksandrov (210-C/F-87) top-scored for the dragons with 17 points. Radojevic ended up with 14 points and Ozbolt had 13. Helios Domzale smashed Sencur 114:68 winning all the periods of the game. Helios started with 29-23 and then added 23-10 in the second frame. In the third stanza the hosts produced 33-24 and finished the game with 29-11 in the last period. Laskevic led the way with 21 points showing perfect percentage from the filed. Delic netted 19 and Sanel Bajramlic (198-F-85, agency: VTBM) scored 14. Petrovic delivered 13 points in the winning effort. Roman Horvat (200-F-71, agency: VTBM) and Virijevic erupted with 14 points apiece in the losing case.

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SPAIN

Zaragoza edge Pau-Orthez in friendly - by Eurobasket NewsZaragoza - Pau-Orthez 62:59Zaragoza claimed the first pre-season victory. They overcame the French powerhouse Pau-Orthez. The French team shocked Zaragoza with a 15:6 start to the game. They rallied to a comfortable 19:12 lead after ten minutes of action. But the Spaniards soon adjusted and exploded with 24 points in the second quarter to gain the advantage. CAI Zaragoza clinched a 36:33 lead at the interval. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. Zaragoza however did not allow their opponents to trim the distance and entered the fourth stanza ahead by 8 points. Pau-Orthez limited the Spanish team to only 9 points in the final quarter but could not overcome the deficit and had to surrender at the end. Darren Phillip (201-F-78, college: Fairfield) top-scored with 24 points for Zaragoza. David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.) added 10 points in the winning case. Teddy Gipson (193-G/F-80, agency: 540 Sports, college: Arkansas) replied with 12 points for Pau-Orthez. Slaven Rimac (195-G-74) and Antoine Mendy (198-F-83) had 9 points each in the losing effort. Matt Kiefer missed the game because of the minor injury to his left knee.

Lithuania posted a confident win over Spain at the Siemens Arena in Vilnius. The teams are on the track with their final preparations for the upcoming EuroBasket 2009 tournament and Lithuania showed they are having some serious ambitions for it. Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) and Linas Kleiza (203-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Missouri) fired 19 points each to pace the hosts. The hosts fired 23 points in the opening frame to surge in front. They entered the second quarter up by 5 points. Spain matched the offensive effort of the home team in the second period and did not allow Lithuania to clear off substantially. The Baltic team led by 6 points at halftime 46:40. But the pressure kept on mounting on the visitors after the major break. Lithuania grabbed a 72:59 lead after three quarters of action. Spain accounted for only 13 points in the fourth stanza and had to surrender at the end. Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) scored 14 points for Lithuania. Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) added 10 points in the victory. Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) responded with 15 points and 6 boards for Spain. Jorge Garbajosa (205-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances) had 13 points in the losing effort.

Villars acquire three players - by Eurobasket NewsVillars Basket strengthen their roster with addition of three new names. Herb Johnson (209-C-62, college: Tulsa), Nicolas Gomes and Boris Eicher (194-G/F-86) bolstered the squad. Herb Johnson is the 39-year-old veteran centre. He spent the last season with Vevey as coach-player. Herb Johnson averaged 9.4 points, 10.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. Herb Johnson will replace Joseph Chambers on the team.Nicolas Gomis is the 200cm power forward. He played in N3 English division last season. Boris Eicher was last seen in Marly Basket in cantonal league. The 23-year-old forward used to play for Villars in 2005/06 season. Villars Basket also axed Jesse Weibel (197-F-84), Gregoire Currat (186-G-81) and Vincent Schumacher (185-G-89) from the roster. Jesse Weibel tallied 6.1 points, 4.5 boards and 2.3 blocks per game. The 25-year-old forward will continue career in Marly Basket. Gregoire Currat is the 28-year-old guard that tallied 11.9 points, 2.8 boards and 2.8 assists per game for the team in the previous season. He moved to England. Vincent Schumacher joined Bulle Basket from 1LN. The guard played just two games for Villars in the last season scoring two points.

It is the second time in this past month that Chinese team are targeting Taiwanese players following a recruiting offer for Taiwan Beer forward Lin Chih-chieh, who was offered to play in China for US$10,000 per month.

Tien Lei's father confirmed the offer, which Tien Lei said is too tempting to turn down. 'I don't think anyone who's been approached (to play in China) would say no, ' Tien was quoted by the Liberty Times as saying.

According to Liberty Times, a number of team representatives contacted Tien Lei during the Asian Championship in Tianjin, where Tien averaged 10.8 points and 5.8 rebounds and helped Taiwan to a 5th place finish.

In addition to the monthly salary offer, Chinese representatives also promised to deal with Tien Lei's buyout clause with Dacin Tigers, one of seven teams in the Taiwanese league SBL.

However, Tien, Lin or anyone else will not be able to play overseas before the CTBA (Chinese Taipei Basketball Association) makes clear its policy.

Fearing that the potential exodus of top Taiwanese players will hollow out the domestic league, CTBA announced a '24-man protection list' last June after a circulating rumor saying that Chen Hsin-an would leave Taiwan and play in the CBA for a one-year contract that worth NT$6 million.

The list included 24 national team players and top Taiwanese players, including Tien, Lin, Chen Hsin-an, Tseng Wen-ting and Wu Tai-hao. Protected players were prohibited to play overseas within 12 months.

CTBA deputy secretary-general Wang Jen-sheng told the media the protection period has expired, which means it's possible for Taiwanese players to sign with Chinese teams in the second half of year 2009.

Dacin manager Wang Tsai-hsiang, son of Dacin owner and CTBA president Wang Jen-da, said that Xinjiang Flying Tigers expressed interests in signing the 6-7 lanky forward two years ago. Dacin and Tien eventually turned down the offer because Tien was rehabbing at the time.

'In fact Tien's salaries in China and Taiwan are about the same because Dacin players received a guaranteed 14-month annual salary plus the bonuses , while Chinese teams only pay their players during the 4-month season, ' Wang explained, saying that Tien Lei is expected to earn around NT$ 2.58 million in Taiwan and NT$ 2.64 million in China.

Wang Jen-da has called a CTBA meeting on September 17 to make a final decision about the matter, LT reported. The LT reporter wrote that the exodus looks like imminent if CTBA fails to establish a plan which focuses on SBL's long-term development.

Summary of the second stage, last day - by Eurobasket NewsArgentina - Uruguay 73-66Another win by Argentina in San Juan for 6-1 record. That was the last day of Quarterfinal Round at FIBA Americas Championship and now we have a group of three teams with the same record (Argentina, Puerto Rico and Brazil). Despite victory against Puerto Rico, Argentina is third in this 'circle'. The hosts of this event is second, while Brazil is No.1. All three teams qualified for the Semifinals and also for the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Uruguay ended the contest as No.6 with 2-5 record. Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) paced Argentina with 19 points and 8 rebounds for 20 minutes. Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) collected 20 pts and 10 rebounds. Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne) stopped on 10 pts.

Dominican Republic - Canada 76-80Fantastic win by Team Canada in crucial game against Dominican Republic. With this victory Canadians jumped to 3-4, taking the fourth place from Dominicans, what automatically means spot for the Semifinals in San Juan and also for the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey! Dominicans ended the competition as No.5. Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) was a key player for Canada in this 'game of the year' with 21 points and 5 assists. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) scored 13, while Jesse Young (207-C-80, college: George Mason) added 2 points less. Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan) and Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) delivered 17 pts each in loss. Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) stopped on 14 pts and 14 rebounds.

Brazil - Puerto Rico 82-86There are no more undefeated teams in San Juan as Brazil finally failed, after impressive winning streak. It means that now Brazil, Puerto Rico and Argentina have the same 6-1 score, but in this ‘circle' Brazilians have the best score and they grabbed position No.1. Puerto Rico is No.2 and Argentina No.3 All three teams booked a spot for Semifinals and also for the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Larry Elias Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) stepped up for the hosts with 25 points and 5 rebounds. Angel Daniel Vassallo (198-G/F-86, college: Virginia Tech) scored 20 and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: Florida Intern.) added 16 pts, 5 boards and 6 assists. Anderson Varejao (205-C-82) responded with double-double in defeat, 22 pts and 10 rebounds. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) had 19 pts and 8 boards, while Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) posted 15 pts. Leandrinho Barbosa did not play in this game.

Panama - Mexico 67-74After three consecutive defeats, Mexico finally celebrated first win in the second stage. It means that Mexico and Panama finished FIBA Americas championship with 1-6 record in the Quarterfinal Round, but Mexicans are on the position No.7. Naturally, the eighth ranked team in Panama. Anthony Pedroza (191-G-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) and Horacio Llamas (212-C-73) led the winners with combining 36 points and 12 rebounds. Gustavo Ayon (209-F/C-85, college: San Jose St.) also had very important role registering double-double, 16 pts and 13 rebounds. Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) shined in loss with 20 pts and 7 boards. Jose Lloreda (201-F-80, college: LSU) followed him with 15 pts and 13 rebs.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Jay Maynard joins Fayetteville State coaching Staff - by David EdoleVernal Maynard will join the FSU staff as an Assistant Coach after serving as a Head Coach of Clay High School from 2005-2008. He also has experience coaching at Norcross High School in Norcross, Georgia, Florida Community College at Jacksonville, and with the ABA Jacksonville Jams.

Maynard began his playing career at Winston-Salem State University. While at Winston-Salem State, Maynard excelled as a three-point shooter, and finished his career second all-time at WSSU in three point field goals made with 192 and tied for first in three-point field goals made in a season with 95. Maynard also played in the Tournament of America's on the Virgin Islands Olympic Team. Maynard played against current NBA superstars Allen Iverson, Tim Duncan, Vince Carter and Ray Allen as well as a host of others.

Vernal Maynard earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and Bachelors of Science in Sport Management from WSSU in 2004. He earned a Masters degree in Education Curriculum Instruction as well as a Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. He grew up in St. Thomas U.S.V.I., and finished high school at Jacksonville High School in Jacksonville, NC.

In addition to his love of basketball, Maynard has developed a genuine concern for people in the community. This concern has lead him to not only be a part of several community organizations, but also found his own, called Seeds of Promise, Inc. The purpose of SOP is to empower disadvantaged youth and adults through mentoring and other community-based programs focusing on human development forward thinking, and partnership building. Coach Maynard is committed to uplifting and empowering others in the community.

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UKRAINE

Vitalii Chernii to coach BC Kyiv. More friendly games - by Eurobasket NewsVitalii Chernii will be the head Coach of BC Kyiv for the upcoming season. Last season the latter worked in BC Kyiv junior team. Khimik continued their Serbian trip with two more games over the last few days. On September 2nd OKK Beograd beat the Ukrainian side 77:72. The coach tried to give more time to the young players and allowed the top players to have more rest time. Vadim Koval (205-C-86) top-scored for Khimik with 12 points and Sizov added 11. Popov ended up with 9 points, while Oleksandr Kolchenko (198-F/G-88), Kalnichenko and Riabchuk netted 9 each. Last night Khimik overcame Vizura 76:73. It was another tough but great match-up from both teams and was excited until the last seconds. Oleksandr Kolchenko stepped up with 19 points and 5 rebounds to lead the Ukrainian side. Agafonov nailed 15, whilst LaVelle had 12 points and 11 boards. Brinza netted 8 and three players posted 4 points. On September 3rd Zalgiris outscored Dnipro from Ukraine 86:66. The Baltic state won the opening quarter 21:17 and then increased the lead to 7 more points after 25-18 in the second period. The Lithuanian team had 46:35 advantage at the halftime. Moreover Zalgiris won the third and the last frames 25-17 and 15-14 respectively. Having 80:55 with 5 minutes in the game the winners led to 86:66 total victory. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke), Watson and Adas Juskevicius had 11 each. Lekicius finished the night with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Glazyrin posted 13.

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UNITED KINGDOM

Shawn Myers Resigns For The 09/10 Season - by Andy WebbThe Cheshire Jets are pleased to reveal that Northgate favorite Shawn Myers (198-G/F-69, college: W.Georgia) will be making a welcoming return to the squad for the 09/10 season. It will be the Trinidad and Tobago stars fifth season in Chester and his first as a UK citizen!

Coach Paul Smith said;

It is a great boost to everyone at the club to have secured Shawns signature, he had a good season with us last year making it into the BBL team of the week at least twice. He brings us great scoring and rebounding and, most importantly, a fierce will to win. As a Jets veteran I know he, along with the likes of James and Calvin, are very determined to put last season behind us and make amends with some success this time around.

Shawn has joined the rest of his Jets teammates earlier this week for the start of pre season training.

Chapman The Chap For Champs - by Andy WebbNewcastle Eagles are thrilled to announce that they have captured their first new face for the 2009/10 season with the recruitment of Marquette graduate Joe Chapman (193-G-84, agency: AMI, college: Marquette)

The 6ft 4in guard who made it to an NCAA Final Four during his first year in College alongside NBA star Dwayne Wade, has enjoyed spells in Mexico, Columbia and Czech Republic.

Chapman joins the Eagles after having enjoyed a stunning spell this year back in Mexico with Caballeros De Culiacan in the CIBACOPA league where he averaged 28.2 points per game.

Eagles Managing Director Paul Blake is looking forward to Chapman joining the club and is confident he will be a good addition to the team.

Joe has enjoyed a good College career playing with some great players like Dwayne Wade and since then he has also done pretty well in all of the pro-leagues he has played in.

He had a good season in the Czech Republic where he averaged double digits two years ago and we feel this kind of form in a comparable league would definitely be just the kind of thing we are looking for.

It is an exciting kind of signing for us among the familiar faces we have brought back and he comes with some solid credentials while he was recently awarded the Mexican CIBACOPA guard of the year for 2009.

As with any new player it depends on how he fits in of course but we think he will be a great addition and his flexibility as a combo guard is important.

We had that last year with Trey (Moore) and it is something that we needed to retain.

Having come out of a good programme and shown that he can be anything from a role player to a main guy depending on the circumstances he definitely has the all round game and firepower that Fab (Flournoy) has been looking for.

In terms of subsequent additions to the roster, Blake did hint that further names would be added.

We might add in another experienced face if possible and we have some exciting developments as always with the up and coming guys.

As always we continue to place a real focus on developing talent and that is where we will be turning our main focus towards now.

Sharks Turn the Tap On - by Andy WebbThe Sheffield Sharks today announced the signing of former Newcastle Eagles dynamo Tafari Toney (203-F/C-86).

Following much anticipation on who the Sharks would get to fill the shoes of retired captain Chris Sanders, the shock signing was completed in a late night negotiation by Sharks coach Atiba Lyons.

The 6 9 centre, known as Tap, will be landing in Sheffield this week to join team mates for pre season training

I am thrilled to have secured Tap within the team, he gives us a defensive presence and is proved to be a great rebounder, if not the best in the league last season said Coach Lyons. I think having him alongside Matt will be very complementary and I think we will see a formidable front court.

Interest in Tafari was far and wide and there had been much speculation that he would settle in mainland Europe, however following much consideration decided to stay in the BBL for another year.

I really like the BBL, I enjoy a great relationship with the fans, so coming back to England was an easy choice stated Tafari. I was impressed with the professionalism of Sheffield and Im looking forward to the opportunity of playing with Coach Lyons.

Fans will get their first glimpse of the new look Sharks at the English Institute of Sport on Sunday 13th September @ 7.30pm when they meet USA Select. Tickets available from the Sharks office on 01142 571992.

URBL Owners Maria Correa President of International Operations. - by URBL mediaThe United Regional Basketball League announced today that international scout and business women, Maria Correa has been appointed President of International Operations, effective immediately.

Maria Correa will head up the franchise expansion and team development north and south of the border. 'Maria knows what it takes to be a champion, her experience and knowledge gained from her international recruiting success makes her a natural for this position,' said J.D. Barnes Co-Owner of the URBL. 'Maria's professionalism is just what we need to expand our league. In the beginning we were only thinking of Japan but after meeting Maria, she convinced us that there is a great love for basketball in her country.'

Plans to expand the league in Japan and now South America thanks to Maria Correa. The URBL has announced that the top players will be touring in Japan in the summer of 2010. 'Now that we have Maria on bored maybe we will visit Uruguay, I've heard great things about this country from many players, said Co-Owner J.D. Barnes

Maria Correa, a native of Salto, Uruguay was responsible for the top players in the URBL this season. All of the players she recommend were all name to the All-URBL team and also were signed to international contracts in Europe, Asia and South America. 'Maria is a great scout and business women. She got me two of the best players in the league that led to my Disciples winning the URBL championship, said DFW owner D.J. Douglas.

'I'm extremely excited the league has appointed me to this position,' said Maria Correa. 'This gives me the opportunity to assist in growing the URBL brand in Uruguay while giving other cities an opportunity to have professional basketball. This also gives our college athletes the opportunity to further develop their skills after college,' added Maria Correa.

Below are players that Maria Correa sent to the URBL and now overseas.

Kearse Re-Signs with SISU CPH - by URBL mediaKearse finished the season 2008-09 with SISU CPH in the Danish Canal Digital Ligaen averaging 22.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.7 steals and 1.8 assists per game in 29.8 minutes per game on the court. He finished the regular season as the second scorer with 22.5 PPG, seventh rebounder with 8.3 RPG, fifth in steals with 2.7 SPG, while he is also sixth in the number of fouls drawn per game. Kearse led the league in the number of mid-range shots made per game.

Kearse has also committed to play in the URBL for his second season. Kearse signed with the Dallas/ Ft. Worth Disciples following his stay at SISU. The Disciples are the 2009 URBL Champions and hope to continue the dominance by adding a great player like Kearse.

Mychal Kearse is one of the best player Ive ever seen. He has it all. Kearse can score, defend, pass, you name it. You don't believe me, ask Europe. Signing him makes us a loch for another championship, said DFW owner D.J. Douglas.

Jesus Centeno and Luis Bethelmy to Angeles de Puebla in Mexico's LNBP - by Francisco VegaBarquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) and Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), members of the Senior NT that just finished playing the FIBA Americas World Cup Qualy Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, will play for Angeles de Puebla in Mexico's LNBP, according to head coach Jorge Arrieta , who talked about the upcoming tournament for the official website of the team.

Arrieta is expecting both players to show up in the next few days, while other players such as Jamal Johnson (201-F-81), Robert Cox (196-G/F-84) and Chris Jackson (208-C-81), all who played last season in Venezuela's LPB with Gigantes de Guayana and Guaiqueries de Margarita, have already made it to Puebla and are currently training with the team that Arrieta will lead for a second straight season.

However, Venezuelan forward Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80), who starred for Angeles de Puebla in the past two seasons, will not be playing there this time, according to Arrieta himself, since the injury he sustained during the LPB season with Marinos de Anzoategui prevents him from being in total shape, so he'll probably wind up playing in Venezuela's LNB with Graneros de Portuguesa instead.

'I'm glad that I'm back in Puebla to begin the preseason where you build the character, the game philosophy and everything else for the upcoming season. Our compromise is not only to make it to the playoffs, but to become title contenders this time around', said Arrieta.

'We know about the favorite condition of other teams, but we want to improve what was the closure of our previous season and have the satisfaction of giving the fans of Puebla the excitement of the playoffs', added the head coach, who worked in Venezuela for Gaiteros del Zulia in LPB 2009.

'I'm waiting for my players to be here as soon as they can so we can begin connecting the team for that first game, which will be tough for us since we will not have the roster completed', said Arrieta.

When asked about the absence of Salcedo, nicknamed 'Taz' in Mexico and a very popular player in Puebla, he explained that he hopes for Bethelmy to pick up the role of imported star. Bethelmy played in Mexico last year for Lobos de Saltillo. 'This is an institution that doesn't depend on a single player. Whoever comes, he'll have to earn its spot in the hearts of the fans the same way Hernan Salcedo did in the last two years. I feel that Luis Bethelmy has what it takes, a big passion, courage and the will to break his soul for the team and win the fans that way'.

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WBA

Message From European Agent Concerning 2009 Job Market. - by Bobby RouseThe current situation for the job market in Europe is as follows. The majority of teams have money problems and want to invest as little as possible this season. There are a lot of players who are in Europe already that are trying out with teams, because this way the teams save the money for the flight ticket and pay a train ticket instead. A lot of teams are planning to start the season off with maybe one foreigner and the rest local players up until December/January (first half of the season) and then bring in another foreigner for the second half of the season. Please keep in mind that we are offering a Pro Exposure Camp in December of this year, to gather all players who havent yet signed with a team until then, and for coaches and GMs looking to bring in another Pro for the second half of the season! The tournament will be held in Bonn Germany. After a very successful camp this summer we want to repeat this in December. You can find full information about the tournament on our webpage! We will still be working on a daily basis to find players jobs, we just wanted to give you an update and a option to increase your chances of getting signed for this season!

Message From European Agent Concerning 2009 Job Market. - by Bobby RouseThe current situation for the job market in Europe is as follows. The majority of teams have money problems and want to invest as little as possible this season. There are a lot of players who are in Europe already that are trying out with teams, because this way the teams save the money for the flight ticket and pay a train ticket instead. A lot of teams are planning to start the season off with maybe one foreigner and the rest local players up until December/January (first half of the season) and then bring in another foreigner for the second half of the season. Please keep in mind that we are offering a Pro Exposure Camp in December of this year, to gather all players who havent yet signed with a team until then, and for coaches and GMs looking to bring in another Pro for the second half of the season! The tournament will be held in Bonn Germany. After a very successful camp this summer we want to repeat this in December. You can find full information about the tournament on our webpage! We will still be working on a daily basis to find players jobs, we just wanted to give you an update and a option to increase your chances of getting signed for this season!

Zeljeznicar Sarajevo sign Marina Dzinic - by Eurobasket Zeljeznicar Sarajevo added to their roster 17-year old domestic center Marina Dzinic (189-C-92). Dzinic played most recently at Trocal Jedinstvo Tuzla (D1). She just came back from European Championships U18 Division B for Women in Eilat (Israel), where in 9 games she aevraged 5.3ppg and 6.1rpg.

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BRAZIL - Women

S.Jose/Vinac stay perfect in Paulista League - by Eurobasket NewsS.Jose/Unimed/Vinac maintained their perfect record at the start of the Paulista League action. They posted the fourth straight win defeating Paulistano/Amil 80:77 on the road. Paulistano/Amil led by 5 points after the opening frame but wasted all of their lead in the reminder of the contest to suffer a narrow loss at the end. Renato Pinto and Fabricio Russo paced the charge with 21 points each. Paulao Castro added 10 points for the winners. Andre Stefanelli answered with 19 points for Paulistano/Amil. Luiz Felipe had 13 points as the hosts slipped at 3-1 record. In the meantime Metodista/Sao Bernardo remained on top of the ladder. They held off Santo Andre 80:76 to improve at 4-1 record. Rafu knocked down 19 points for the winners. Pilar came up with 18 points and 18 boards in the victory. Santo Andre were not rescued by game-high 29 points from Daniel. Vivo/Franca also kept spotless as they held off XV/Cosan/Selam 97:80 at home court. Tony Stockman fired 22 points for Vivo/Franca. Helinho Garcia and Rogerio Klafke added 15 points each in the winning charge.

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GERMANY - Women

EBL Player of the Year to WWK Donau-Ries - by Moritz KorffPatrick Bar, head coach of WWK Donau-Ries (DBBL), was looking for a scorer and now it looks like if he has found a player who fits to this description perfectly.The Noerdlingen team signed Stephanie Gandy. The American who also holds a British passport is 27 years of age and comes from Detroit, Michigan. Gandy finished her collegiate career in 2004 and went straight overseas to start a professional career. At first she played in the Netherlands and then headed to England. From 2005 to 2009 Gandy shined for the Sheffield Hatters and put up outstanding numbers year after year. During 2008-2009 she averaged 19.7 points and 10.2 rebounds for the Hatters. She was named the Eurobasket.com All-EBL Forward of the Year in 2006, 2007 and 2009 and also received Eurobasket.com All-EBL Player of the Year honors after this past season. Through the years she led Sheffield to three EBL championships. After the 2008-09 EBL season had come to a close, Gandy took her game down under and spent the summer in the Australian QABL, playing for the Bundaberg Bears.

Glaser from Oberhausen to Herne - by Cornelius DammGerman NT inside player Petra Glaser (196-F/C-81, college: Long Beach St.) will suit up for Herner TC this season. As she did not receive a new contract from evo New Basket Oberhausen where she had spent the past two seasons but also wanted to stay in the West German area it wasn't big of a surprise that she moved just around the corner to Herner TC. In 27 games for Oberhausen Glaser combined for 9.3 PPG while shooting .457 from the floor and .800 from the foul line past season. She also averaged 5.7 RPG and 1.3 APG while turning the ball over 2.3 times in 24 minutes a game. For Herner TC this move is very vital in order to fulfil the restrictions concerning German minutes on the court. Last year Herner TC was one of the clubs in 1.DBBL with the least German minutes. Only two German players on the roster averaged more than 10 minutes per game.

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IVORY COAST - Women

NBBF Sets up 3-Man LOC for FIBA Africa Zone-III qualifiers - by Olusegun IkuesanThe Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) is to set-up a 3-Man Local Organizing Committee, LOC to coordinate the affairs of the country hosting of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women Zone-III elimination billed for the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos from September 13 to 16 this year.

According to the President of the Nigeria basketball house, Tijjani Umar the LOC members will be unveil and given their schedule of work early next week in order to ensure that the country hosted a successful qualifiers.

Only host, Nigeria and Cote dIvoire are the two countries that have entered for the qualifiers involving senior women national teams of Nigeria, Cote dIvoire, Republic of Benin, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Niger Republic, Togo and Ghana where only the winner of the four-day qualifying series will make it to the final round of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women slated for Antananarivo, Madagascar from October 8 through 18.

The NBBF President says the Nigeria national under the watchful eyes of coaches Ayodele Bakare, Scott Nnaji and Andrew Isokpehi are expected to begin preparation for the all important qualifiers on Monday.

Twelve home-based players will be joined by their foreign-based counterparts are to battle for a place in the final 12-man roster that will fly the country flag.

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NIGERIA - Women

NBBF Sets up 3-Man LOC for FIBA Africa Zone-III qualifiers - by Olusegun IkuesanThe Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) is to set-up a 3-Man Local Organizing Committee, LOC to coordinate the affairs of the country hosting of the FIBA Africa Championship for Women Zone-III elimination billed for the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos from September 13 to 16 this year.

According to the President of the Nigeria basketball house, Tijjani Umar the LOC members will be unveil and given their schedule of work early next week in order to ensure that the country hosted a successful qualifiers.

Only host, Nigeria and Cote dIvoire are the two countries that have entered for the qualifiers involving senior women national teams of Nigeria, Cote dIvoire, Republic of Benin, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Niger Republic, Togo and Ghana where only the winner of the four-day qualifying series will make it to the final round of the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women slated for Antananarivo, Madagascar from October 8 through 18.

The NBBF President says the Nigeria national under the watchful eyes of coaches Ayodele Bakare, Scott Nnaji and Andrew Isokpehi are expected to begin preparation for the all important qualifiers on Monday.

Twelve home-based players will be joined by their foreign-based counterparts are to battle for a place in the final 12-man roster that will fly the country flag.

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SLOVAKIA - Women

Dobri Anjeli add Martina Kissova - by Eurobasket NewsDobri Anjeli inked one of the brightest talents in the country Martina Kissova (185-F-93). The 16-year-old forward was last seen in Cadet Meadows Bratislava. She led the team to the junior national title. Later Martina Kissova joined the U18 Slovak Republic National Team for the European Championship in Sweden. There Kissova averaged 9.0 points, 5.8 boards and 1.5 assists per game.

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SPAIN - Women

Chajeba Jerez land Elena Yankova - by Eurobasket NewsChajeba 04 Jerez have secured the services of Bulgarian Elena Yankova (177-G-86) for the next season. The 23-year-old guard spent the previous season studying and playing at the Cowley College of the NJCAA. She was the schools third all-time scorer with 997 points. Yankova averaged 16.8 points and 3.8 boards per game last season. Elena Yankova was also named the Jayhawk East Freshman of the Year in 2008. Prior to her college career Elena Yankova played for Slavia Sofia back in Bulgaria.

Dream's Angel McCoughtry named Adidas Rookie of the Month for August - by Eurobasket NewsThe WNBA named the Atlanta Dream's Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) the adidas Rookie of the Month for games played in August. McCoughtry, the top overall pick in the 2009 WNBA Draft, previously earned Rookie of the Month for games played in July.

In 10 games, McCoughtry led all rookies and the Dream in points per game (17.3), which placed her among the top 10 in the league. She also led all rookies in steals per game (3.4), and ranked third in rebounds per game (3.4) and assists per game (2.4). McCoughtry scored a career-high 34 points in a 93-87 win over San Antonio. Over the month, she helped the Dream to a 6-4 record and scored in double digits in each game, including three outings in which she racked up 20 or more points.

McCoughtry has added depth to an Atlanta team that finished its inaugural season with only four wins. The Dream currently holds the second place spot in the Eastern Conference with a 16-14 record and is on the verge of their first playoff berth. McCoughtry has scored double digits in 21 of 30 games to date this season, and currently ranks sixth in the league in steals per game (2.2).

Mystics stop Storm's 6-game winning streak - by Eurobasket NewsSeattle S. - Washington M. 67-78The Washington Mystics ended six-game winning streak made by the Seattle Storm. That is 15th win for the Mystics in 30 appearances, while the team from Seattle fell to 19-12. Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, college: Duke) collected 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Matee Ajavon (5'8''-G-86, college: Rutgers) had 16, while Marissa Coleman (6'1''-G/F-87, college: Maryland) helped with 14 points. Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) also had important role collecting 12 points and 11 boards. In the winning squad, Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) drained 17 pts and handed out 6 assists. Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) scored 12 and Cash Swin (6'2''-F-79, college: Connecticut) had one point less. Last quarter was the crucial one in this game. Before that, the teams were leveled in first 17-17, while the Mystics ended next one with 16-18. After the breather we saw almost the same. The teams were totally leveled, meaning that the Mystics entered to last ten minutes with 53-55. Soon after that they moved up to plus 8, what was unreachable for Seattle until the end. Washington players totally outjumped their rivals grabbing 10 rebounds more (41-31). They also had better shot percentage for 2 and 3. Today we will have four games.